Why Sewage Backups Happen in Beaverton

Beaverton's older neighborhoods have sewer lines that date back decades, and tree roots infiltrate these aging pipes through small cracks. Once roots establish inside the line, they catch debris and create blockages. When the main line clogs, sewage flows backward into your home through the lowest drain. Heavy rain also overwhelms the municipal system, causing backups during peak flow periods. Some homes have combination systems where storm water and sewage share the same line, which increases backup risk during wet weather.

Health Risks of Sewage Contamination

Sewage is classified as Category 3 water, also called black water, and it contains pathogens that cause serious illness. E. coli, salmonella, hepatitis, and parasitic worms are all present in untreated sewage. Touching contaminated surfaces can lead to skin infections, and breathing airborne particles can cause respiratory illness. Porous materials like carpet, drywall, and insulation cannot be adequately disinfected once they contact sewage. They must be removed and replaced.

Anyone with a compromised immune system, children, and elderly individuals are especially vulnerable to sewage-related illness.

Professional Sewage Cleanup Process

We arrive in full PPE and establish containment to prevent cross-contamination. Then we extract sewage and standing water using truck-mounted vacuums, remove all porous materials that contacted the waste, and bag them for proper disposal. Hard surfaces like concrete and tile get scrubbed with EPA-registered disinfectants rated for sewage. We treat structural components with antimicrobial solutions and dry everything to below 15 percent moisture content. Air scrubbers with HEPA filters run continuously to remove airborne particles. Only after surfaces pass ATP testing do we begin restoration.

Insurance Coverage for Sewer Backups

Standard homeowners policies often exclude sewer backup unless you purchased an endorsement. If you have sewer backup coverage, the policy usually includes contents, structure, and cleanup costs. We document the source, photograph all damage, and provide detailed remediation protocols that meet IICRC S500 standards. Our team works with your adjuster to ensure your claim is filed correctly and processed quickly.

If sewage backed up into your home, do not touch contaminated areas. Call us immediately for emergency cleanup. We'll contain the damage, disinfect your home, and handle your insurance claim from start to finish.