Sewage Backup Cleanup in Denver, CO
Safe removal, sanitizing and drying after sewage comes up through a floor drain, toilet or tub.
Sewage Backup Cleanup in Denver
Sewage that backs up through a basement floor drain or toilet is category 3 water, which carries bacteria and other contaminants. Many older Denver homes have clay or cast iron sewer laterals where tree roots and breaks can cause backups. Cleanup means removing contaminated porous materials, cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and drying the area, with protective gear the whole way.
Signs you may need this
- Dark water coming up from a basement floor drain
- Toilets or tubs backing up when other fixtures run
- A strong sewage smell in the lower level
- Gurgling drains throughout the house
How it usually works
- 1
Stop using water
Avoid running fixtures so more sewage does not back up, and keep people and pets out of the area.
- 2
Contain and protect
The crew sets up containment and uses protective equipment.
- 3
Remove contaminated materials
Carpet, pad, lower drywall and other porous materials that touched sewage are removed and disposed of.
- 4
Clean and disinfect
Hard surfaces are cleaned and treated with disinfectant.
- 5
Dry and verify
The area is dried and checked before repairs begin. A plumber or sewer pro addresses the line itself.
What affects the price
Typical range: $7 - $10 / sq ft. Your exact price is set after an on-site look.
Affected area
Sewage cleanup is priced higher per square foot than clean water work.
Materials to remove
Finished basements with carpet and drywall mean more removal and disposal.
Contents
Porous belongings that touched sewage are usually discarded.
Sewer line repair
Clearing or repairing the sewer line is a separate cost from cleanup.
Questions homeowners ask
Can I clean up a sewage backup myself?
Small backups on bare concrete can sometimes be handled with care, but sewage contains bacteria and other contaminants. For anything that reached carpet or drywall, professional cleanup is the safer choice.
Does insurance cover sewage backups?
Standard homeowners policies often exclude sewer and drain backups unless you added a water backup endorsement. Check your policy for that coverage.
Can carpet be saved after a sewage backup?
Usually not. Carpet and pad that touched sewage are typically removed and replaced.
Denver Water Damage Cost Calculator
Pick the type of water, set the affected area, and get a ballpark range for cleanup and drying in the Denver metro. Rebuild work like new drywall and flooring is priced separately.