Steps to Handle a Broken Sewage Pipe

Safety First

A burst sewage pipe is dangerous for a few reasons. The water damage to your property and plumbing is the most obvious, but the category of water damage you are dealing with is of particular importance. A burst sewage pipe exposes your household and property to black water. This water is contaminated with harmful bacteria, pathogens, and microbes. If you must do some cleaning, then be sure to wear protective equipment including gloves and a mask.

Before you get in contact with the water, we urge you to find the electric and/or utilities boxes and shut off the electricity and gas to the affected area. Do not light any matches or play with appliances in the area. In fact, it is better to be safe than sorry. Evacuate the property and call for help if the burst pipe is in contact with electrical outlets, electrical wiring, and electrical components.

Document the Damage

There is a good chance your property insurance will cover some of the costs associated with the burst sewage pipe. They are going to want extensive evidence, however. Once you are certain the area is safe, grab your phone and take plenty of photos and videos. These are going to be valuable when filing the insurance claim.

Start the Cleanup

The majority of the cleanup is best left to a damage restoration company, but you can do some cleaning yourself before they arrive. Black water is risky, but you can do some cleaning so long as you take necessary precautions. Put on your personal protective equipment and begin by draining the sewage via the sewer trap, pump, or natural draining. Then, remove soil and sewage from affected surfaces. By now, the restoration specialist should have arrived. If not, you can continue cleaning by using clean, warm water and low-suds detergent followed by a rinse.

Repair or Replace the Broken Pipe

That broken pipe is no good going forward. If you are lucky, a quick pipe repair should have you back on schedule. Extensive damage, however, may call for a sewage pipe replacement. Feel free to call Mr. Rooter Plumbing to schedule an appointment with one of our plumbers or arrange an emergency dispatch. A dedicated plumber can be at your location in as soon as within the hour. We are also happy to give you a free price estimate upfront, and dont forget to ask about ongoing promotional offers.