Sewage Cleanup and Restoration

When confronted with water from sewer system backups, it is vital to recognize the significant dangers associated with it. This highly unsanitary water may harbor bacteria and viruses that can cause severe illness. Proper training and equipment are essential for safe and effective cleaning in such cases.

If you encounter a sewage backup or toilet overflow, contact SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island immediately at (206) 282-9500.

There are three types of contaminated water, and our experts will assess the situation to determine the appropriate response for restoring your property safely.

  1. Category 1: "Clean Water" Originating from a clean source like a broken water supply line, this water can degrade if left untreated and become category 2 or 3 water due to time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

  2. Category 2: "Gray Water" Containing a notable level of contamination, this water can cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Examples include washing machine overflow or toilet overflow with urine but no feces.

  3. Category 3: "Black Water" Extremely unsanitary and potentially life-threatening if consumed, this water should be avoided. Sources include flooding from rivers, water beyond the toilet trap, or standing water supporting microbial growth.

Category 3 water may contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and harmful microbes, necessitating professional assistance.

Sewage Backup or Toilet Overflow? Call Us Today – (206) 282-9500

There are three major types of contaminated water. SERVPRO of Seattle Central and South & Mercer Island will inspect that contaminated water to determine the type of water and then plan the appropriate response to safely restore your home or business.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

This is water from a clean source, such as a broken clean water supply line or faucet. If left untreated, category 1 water can quickly degrade into category 2 or 3 water depending upon such factors as time, temperature, and contact with contaminants.

  • Water from a clean source like a broken water line
  • If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

This water has a significant level of contamination that could cause discomfort or illness if ingested. Sources for category 2 water may include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

  • May contain bacteria and viruses
  • Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

  • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
  • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup

24 Emergency Service

Sewage backup should be considered an emergency and dealt with as quickly as possible. We are the water damage restoration specialists with specific training and expertise to safely restore your home or business.