Step-by-Step Guide to Sewage Backup Cleanup

A sewage backup is one of the most distressing home disasters a property owner can face. The smell, the mess, and the health hazards can feel overwhelming — but your home can be safely restored with the right plan and protective steps. Whether the problem starts from a clogged line, a heavy storm, or a failed sump pump, knowing what to do next makes all the difference.

In states like Colorado, where unpredictable stormy weather is a matter of course, septic systems can overflow and cause sewer backups. For example, if you’re dealing with contamination or standing wastewater, reach out for sewage backup cleanup services in Denver from a certified team that understands the urgency and the safety standards required for complete recovery.

This guide walks you through the safest and most effective ways to handle a sewage backup cleanup — from containing the mess and protecting your health to restoring your home quickly and preventing future issues.

Assess the Damage

To assess the damage caused by the sewage backup, you should carefully examine the affected areas and determine the extent of contamination and destruction. This step is crucial in understanding the severity of the situation and taking appropriate actions to restore your home. Assessing health risks and documenting the damage are vital aspects of this process.

Firstly, it’s essential to consider the potential health risks associated with sewage backup. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens that pose serious health hazards. As you assess the damage, be cautious and take necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and gloves. This will help prevent direct contact with the contaminated areas and minimize the risk of infection.

Next, thoroughly document the damage caused by the sewage backup. Take photographs or videos, making sure to capture all affected areas. These visual records will serve as evidence for insurance claims and aid in the restoration process. A detailed written inventory of damaged items and structures must also be made. Note any visible signs of contamination, such as foul odors or discoloration. This documentation will be valuable when seeking professional assistance or discussing the situation with insurance adjusters.

Gather Necessary Protective Gear and Equipment

Make sure you have the equipment before starting the sewage backup cleanup process. Protective gear is essential to your safety and helps prevent exposure to bacteria, viruses, and other harmful contaminants. Sewage backups carry serious health hazards, and even brief contact can result in infection. You’ll minimize risk by preparing in advance and wearing the correct equipment. Combine durable, waterproof gloves with rubber boots with non-slip soles to avoid accidents on wet floors. Goggles will shield your eyes, while a respirator or face mask filters out airborne hazards — both emphasized in our guide on protective gear for sewage cleanup health risks.

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Disposable coveralls are strongly recommended to prevent direct contact with sewage. These are meant to be thrown away after one use, so don’t reuse them under any circumstances. These steps protect you physically and play a key role in safeguarding health in sewage cleanup — the foundation for a thorough and responsible restoration.

Turn Off Electrics, Gas, and Water Supply

Before taking any cleanup steps, make safety your priority. Use this quick checklist to secure your home before handling contaminated areas:

• Shut off the electricity. Locate your main circuit breaker and cut the power to all affected zones. Avoid standing water until you’re sure no electrical current is present.
• Turn off the gas supply. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, shut off the main line and ventilate the area. Sewer gas can accumulate quickly in enclosed spaces.
• Stop the water flow. Close the home’s main water valve to prevent further flooding if the backup stems from a burst pipe. You must document and report the water damage when you submit your insurance claim. The more thorough your documentation, the smoother and faster your reimbursement process will be.
• Inspect the roof and upper floors. Before cleanup begins, take simple steps to prevent new water from getting in. Cover exposed areas with a tarp, clear nearby gutters, and check for loose shingles to stop additional leaks and damage.
• Confirm the area is safe to enter. Once utilities are off and the air is clear of fumes or gas, proceed cautiously to begin your cleanup efforts.

Once you’ve taken these precautions, your space is stable and safe to approach. Cutting power, gas, and water early prevents further damage and creates the controlled environment you need to begin cleanup with confidence.

Roll Up Your Sleeves and Start Cleaning

Once utilities are off and the area is safe, it’s time to start the physical cleanup. Work methodically and protect yourself throughout each step. The process will take time — but careful handling now prevents bigger problems later.

• First, remove visible waste. Put on waterproof gloves and scoop up visible sewage solids such as toilet paper and fecal matter using a disposable plastic dustpan. Then, drop the debris directly into a double-bagged trash bag and take it outside immediately.
• Soak up excess liquid. If you have a wet/dry shop vacuum, use it to extract the remaining wastewater. Without one, rely on old rags, towels, or paper towels — blot and wring from the outer edges toward the center of the contaminated area. Each load of absorbent material should go into a heavy-duty trash bag before disposal.
• Avoid household vacuums. Never use your home vacuum; it’s not designed for contaminated liquids and could spread bacteria or ruin the machine.
• Clean systematically. Work in small sections, alternating between collecting solids and soaking up residual moisture. This steady rhythm minimizes the spread of contamination.
• Follow professional cleanup guidance. Adhere to professional cleanup guidance to ensure safety and proper sanitation. Wear protective gear, isolate the affected area, and use disinfectants approved for biohazard cleanup to reduce health risks and prevent contamination.
• Use pro-level methods when possible. If contamination spreads to walls or baseboards, careful removal and proper disposal are key. Take your time — precision and thorough cleanup matter more than speed at this stage.

Once the standing water is removed, it’s crucial to disinfect the area thoroughly. Use a bleach solution or a commercial disinfectant recommended for sewage cleanup. Thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces, including walls, floors, and any objects that came into contact with the sewage water. This step will help eliminate any remaining bacteria and prevent mold or mildew growth.

Remove Contaminated Materials from Sewer Backup

To properly handle the aftermath of a sewage backup, responsibly dispose of all contaminated materials. Proper waste management is crucial to protect yourself and your loved ones from potential health risks. Here are three important steps to follow when disposing of contaminated materials:

Separate the Contaminated Materials

When cleaning up after a sewage backup, separating contaminated materials from unaffected ones is important. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful substances. Place contaminated items in sturdy plastic bags or containers to avoid leaks or spills. For larger cleanups, review Large Area Sewage Cleanup Equipment — Why Opt for It to understand which tools can make removal faster and safer.

Seal and Label the Bags 

Once you have gathered all the contaminated materials, make sure to seal the bags tightly to prevent any further contamination. Additionally, label the bags clearly as ‘contaminated waste’ to ensure proper handling by waste management professionals.

Contact a Professional Waste Disposal Service

It’s highly recommended that you seek assistance from a professional waste disposal service for the proper disposal of contaminated materials. These experts have the necessary equipment and knowledge to handle hazardous waste safely. They’ll ensure that the waste is transported and disposed of in accordance with all regulations and guidelines. Learn more about common hazards by reading 12 Health Hazards Linked to Basement Sewage Cleanup to stay informed about potential risks.

Clean and Disinfect Affected Surfaces

After properly disposing of the contaminated materials, the next step is to thoroughly clean and disinfect all surfaces affected by the sewage backup. Cleaning techniques and disinfection products play a crucial role in ensuring that your home is safe and free from harmful bacteria and germs. You can reference Water Damage Restoration Protocol: Safeguarding Your Home and Business for deeper guidance on restoration best practices that follow professional standards.

• Remove any visible debris or dirt from the affected surfaces. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a mop to clean the area. Be sure to wear protective gloves and clothing to prevent direct contact with the sewage.
• Prepare a cleaning solution using hot water and a mild detergent. This will help remove any remaining dirt and grime. Scrub the surfaces with a brush or sponge, paying extra attention to corners and crevices where bacteria can hide.
• Disinfect surfaces to kill any remaining bacteria and viruses. Choose a disinfection product that’s specifically designed for use on sewage-contaminated surfaces. Follow the instructions on the product label, as different products may have varying contact times and dilution ratios.
• Apply the disinfectant solution to the affected surfaces. Allow the solution to sit for the recommended contact time to ensure effective disinfection. After the contact time has passed, rinse the surfaces thoroughly with clean water to remove any residue.

Remember to properly ventilate the area during and after the cleaning process to prevent the buildup of harmful fumes. Open windows and use fans to improve air circulation.

Dry and Dehumidify the Area

Ensure thorough drying and dehumidification of the area to prevent mold growth and further damage. This step is crucial to restoring air quality and creating a safe and comfortable living environment. Here are three essential actions to take:

• Remove standing water: Begin by eliminating any remaining standing water in the affected area. Use a wet/dry vacuum or a pump to extract as much water as possible. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and boots, to avoid direct contact with the contaminated water.
• Dry the area: After removing the standing water, it’s time to focus on drying the space. Open windows and doors to increase ventilation and allow fresh air to circulate within the area. Use fans and dehumidifiers strategically to expedite the drying process. Position fans to blow air out of the space, aiding in moisture removal.
• Monitor humidity levels: Regularly monitor the humidity levels in the space using a hygrometer. Aim to maintain humidity below 50% to prevent mold growth. If necessary, continue running dehumidifiers until the desired humidity level is achieved. Remember to empty the dehumidifier’s collection container regularly to prevent overflow and ensure proper functioning.

Commercial Sewage Backup Cleanup Procedures

Cleaning a sewage backup in a commercial space requires stricter safety protocols and industrial-grade methods. Offices, restaurants, schools, and retail buildings must meet health regulations while minimizing business disruption. Professional cleanup isn’t just about appearance — it’s about ensuring compliance and protecting occupants from exposure.

• Prioritize employee and customer safety. Businesses should immediately evacuate contaminated areas and restrict access. Make sure your cleanup team uses certified protective gear suited for sewage-related environments.
• Use industrial-grade cleaning systems. Commercial cleanup often requires truck-mounted extractors, submersible pumps, and high-volume dehumidifiers to remove standing water efficiently. Equipment should be rated for biohazard conditions and used only by trained personnel.
• Sanitize and test for safety. After drying, use hospital-grade disinfectants and consider air-quality testing to ensure the space is free from harmful microbes. Focus on health safeguards during large-scale cleanups.
• Document and verify restoration. Keep records of all cleaning procedures, waste disposal manifests, and any repairs made. These documents protect your business if regulatory agencies or insurers require proof of compliance.

Commercial sewage cleanup demands precision, professional equipment, and a strong commitment to safety. When in doubt, partner with certified restoration experts who specialize in regulated environments.

Sewage Backup Cleanup Services

Fast action is the only way to limit property damage and begin recovery when a sewage backup occurs. At Advanced 24/7 Restoration, our certified professionals handle every stage of cleanup and restoration — from extraction and sanitation to repairs and odor removal — ensuring your space returns to its pre-damage condition.

Our team thoroughly cleanses to eliminate lingering odors, disinfect surfaces, and safeguard your health. We provide complete restoration services for homes and businesses affected by raw sewage or flooding.

Call (720) 722-4777 or message us — we’re available 24/7 for emergencies. It’s all for fast, reliable help when you need it most.