Home Services Sewage backup cleanup
Sewage backup cleanup in Colorado Springs, CO
Sewage backup cleanup in Colorado Springs
Sewage in your home is a health risk. Keep people and pets out, don't try to clean it up yourself, and call us.
- 24/7 response
- Protective gear and containment
- Disinfection and drying
- Insurance documentation
Do this first
- Keep people and pets out
- Don't flush or run water
- Don't touch it without gloves and boots
- Call Colorado Springs Utilities (719-448-4800)
- Call us and your insurer
Why sewage is different
Sewage water is Category 3 ("black water"), meaning it can contain bacteria and viruses. Anything porous that touches it, like carpet, pad, drywall and insulation, usually has to be removed and thrown away, not dried. The area then gets cleaned and disinfected.
What we do
- Contain the area and set up protection so contamination doesn't spread
- Remove contaminated water and solids
- Remove carpet, pad, drywall and other materials that can't be cleaned
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and the structure
- Dry everything and check moisture until it's normal
- Document the work for your insurer
Who to call
If sewage backs up into your home in Colorado Springs, call Colorado Springs Utilities at 719-448-4800 (option 1 for emergencies). They inspect the pipe segment your house connects to and fix it if the blockage is in their line. If the blockage is in your own line, a plumber fixes it and you're responsible for it. Outside the city, call your sanitation district, such as Security Water and Sanitation (719-392-3475) or Fountain Sanitation District (719-382-5303). Call your insurance company, too. Cleanup is what we do, no matter whose pipe it was.
What it costs
Sewage cleanup costs more than clean-water work because of the safety steps and disposal. National figures put contaminated (Category 3) water at about $7 to $7.50 or more per square foot, and two feet of sewage backup typically costs $2,800 or more. The plumbing fix for the sewer line usually adds $500 to $3,800. See the water damage cost guide.
Insurance
Standard homeowners policies often exclude sewer and drain backup unless you've added it as an endorsement. Check your policy. If you do have it, we'll document everything so the claim goes smoothly. See insurance claim help.
Questions about sewage backup cleanup in Colorado Springs
Is it safe to clean up sewage myself?
We don't recommend it. Sewage can carry bacteria and viruses, and missed material leaves odors and mold. At minimum, keep kids and pets out and wear waterproof boots, gloves and a mask.
Who is responsible for a sewer backup in Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs Utilities handles the public wastewater lines. You're responsible for the pipe from your house to the main. Call Utilities at 719-448-4800 to report it, and a plumber to fix your line. Utilities also sells optional wastewater backup insurance on your bill.
Will my insurance cover sewage damage?
Only if your policy includes sewer or drain backup coverage, which is often an optional add-on. Check with your agent.
How long does it take?
Cleanup and disinfection usually take a day or two, and drying takes several more. Rebuilding comes after.
Can the smell be removed?
Yes, once contaminated materials are removed and surfaces are cleaned, disinfected and dried. Odors that stay usually mean something wet or contaminated is still in the structure.
