**What is a Sewage Backup?**

A sewage backup occurs when wastewater from your property’s plumbing system flows backward into your home or business due to an obstruction or blockage. This can cause severe inconvenience, damage to your property, and pose health risks.

## Causes of Sewage Backups

**1. Clogged Drains:**

Excessive amounts of waste, grease, wipes, or other debris can build up in drains, creating blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing smoothly.

**2. Tree Root Intrusion:**

Tree roots can grow into sewage pipes, causing cracks or compressing the pipe, leading to blockages.

**3. Pipe Failure:**

Old or damaged pipes can deteriorate over time, causing leaks, cracks, or even complete collapse, resulting in sewage backups.

**4. Heavy Rainfall:**

During heavy rainfall, large amounts of water can overwhelm the sewage system, causing backups in low-lying areas.

**5. Sewer Design Flaws:**

Improperly designed or installed sewage systems can also contribute to backups, especially in areas with high groundwater levels.

**Effects of Sewage Backups:**

**1. Damage to Property:**

Standing sewage water can cause significant damage to flooring, walls, carpets, and furniture.

**2. Health Hazards:**

Raw sewage contains bacteria and other contaminants that can cause health issues if ingested or inhaled.

**3. Inconvenience:**

Sewage backups can make toilets, sinks, and drains unusable, disrupting daily life and creating an unpleasant odor.

**4. Environmental Impact:**

Sewage backups can contaminate groundwater and surface water, potentially harming the environment.

## How Does Sewage Backup Happen?

Sewage backups typically occur when a blockage or obstruction prevents wastewater from flowing through the pipes. This can be caused by:

– **Clogged drains:** Grease, hair, and other debris accumulate in drains, forming clogs that restrict wastewater flow.
– **Tree roots:** Tree roots can infiltrate sewage pipes, crushing or displacing them, causing blockages.
– **Collapsed pipes:** Old or damaged pipes can deteriorate, weaken, and eventually collapse, resulting in sewage backups.
– **Improper design:** Sewage systems that are not designed or installed properly may experience backups, especially during heavy rainfall or high water usage.