A certain degree of urgency and stress accompanies sewage leaks in your crawl space or otherwise under the house. It’s a messy and potentially hazardous situation that requires prompt and thorough cleanup to prevent further damage to your home and health. While every situation is unique, there are general steps you can take to address the issue and restore your property to its pre-loss condition.
Even with Sewage: Safety First
Before attempting any cleanup efforts, prioritize safety. Sewage water can contain harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants that pose serious health risks. That’s why we wear protective gear, including gloves, goggles, and a mask, to minimize exposure to hazardous substances and reduce the spread of harmful substances throughout the home.
Assess the Sewage Damage
Once it’s safe to enter the affected area, assess the extent of the damage. Look for signs of water damage, such as discoloration, swelling, and foul odors. Pay close attention to any areas where sewage water may have seeped into walls, insulation, or flooring.
Remove Standing Water
Use a wet/dry vacuum or pumps to remove any standing water from the crawl space. Be sure to dispose of contaminated water properly and avoid draining it into nearby storm drains or waterways.
Clean and Disinfect
Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces that met sewage water. Use a mixture of water and bleach or a commercial disinfectant to kill bacteria and prevent mold growth. Be sure to follow proper safety precautions and ventilation guidelines when using chemical cleaners.
Dry Out the Area
Proper drying is essential to prevent mold and mildew growth. Use fans, dehumidifiers, and open windows to promote airflow and accelerate the drying process. Monitor moisture levels regularly and continue drying until the area is completely dry.
Inspect for Mold
After the area is dry, thoroughly inspect for any signs of mold growth. Mold can thrive in damp environments and pose health risks to occupants. If mold is present, address it promptly to prevent further damage and health issues.
Address Attic Damage Following Sewage Leaks
In some cases, sewage leaks in the crawl space can also lead to attic damage. Inspect the attic for signs of water intrusion, mold growth, and structural damage. Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage to your home.
Seek Professional Help
This may be the most important point of all! Cleaning up a sewage leak in your crawl space is a challenging and potentially hazardous task. If you are unsure how to proceed or if the damage is extensive, seek professional help. A remediation and restoration company like Red Truck Disaster Response has the expertise, equipment, and resources to handle sewage cleanup and restore your property to its pre-loss condition safely and effectively.
Dealing with a sewage leak in your crawl space can be overwhelming, but with the right approach and assistance, you can mitigate damage and restore your home to a safe and healthy environment. If you are facing a sewage cleanup emergency in Boise, Idaho, trust the experts at Red Truck Disaster Response to provide prompt and professional assistance. We are here to help you navigate the cleanup process and get your home back on track.
About Red Truck Disaster Response in Boise, Idaho
Before starting Red Truck Disaster Response in 2016, owner Patrick Coppi spent more than 30 years working in the restoration industry. Through his experience working for a national franchise, he saw first-hand how larger companies fail to provide the level of customer service their clients need and deserve when they are going through a loss to their home. He started Red Truck and made the conscious decision to put service first. Our clients are our highest priority. With a focus on professional and supportive service and open communication, we help our clients restore both their homes and their lives after a disaster. We will work with any insurance company and can handle any size loss. If you face a loss of any kind, 24/7, call our hotline (208) 225-6896 and we’ll be happy to help!
