Protecting Your Home & Health

Few things are more overwhelming for a homeowner than dealing with a sewage backup. Beyond the mess and foul odor, raw sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and contaminants that pose serious health risks. Acting fast is essential to prevent further damage to your home and protect your family’s well-being. That’s why ServiceMaster of Athens is available 24/7, every day of the year, to provide expert sewage backup cleanup when you need it most. Backed by over 65 years of experience, we have the knowledge and advanced equipment to restore your home safely.

Common Causes of Sewage Backups in Athens

Understanding what leads to sewage backups can help you take preventive measures and avoid costly damage. Some of the most common causes in the Athens area include:

• Heavy Rain & Flooding – Excessive rainfall can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, causing sewage to back up into homes.
• Clogged Pipes – Flushing non-biodegradable items like wipes, paper towels, grease, and hygiene products can block pipes and lead to backups.
• Tree Root Intrusion – Athens’ tree-lined neighborhoods are beautiful, but tree roots can invade underground sewer lines, causing blockages and pipe damage.
• Aging Sewer Systems – Many older homes in Athens rely on outdated plumbing systems that are more susceptible to cracks, leaks, and blockages.
• Septic System Failures – Homes with septic tanks may experience backups if the system is overloaded, poorly maintained, or experiencing a mechanical failure.

What to Do When You Encounter a Sewage Backup

If you experience one in your home, follow these steps immediately:

The Health Risks of Sewage Backups

Exposure to raw sewage can have serious health consequences. Common risks include:

• Bacterial & Viral Infections – Sewage water may contain dangerous pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Hepatitis A
• Respiratory Issues – Mold and airborne contaminants can trigger allergies, asthma, and other breathing difficulties
• Skin & Eye Irritation – Direct contact with contaminated water can cause rashes, infections, and eye irritation
• Gastrointestinal Illnesses – Accidentally ingesting sewage-contaminated water can lead to severe stomach issues, vomiting, and diarrhea

For the safety of your family, it’s crucial to leave sewage cleanup to trained professionals who have the right equipment and expertise to handle hazardous waste properly.

Our Process

Our team follows a meticulous, industry-leading process to ensure your home is thoroughly cleaned, sanitized, and restored:

Let ServiceMaster Handle it

You don’t have to deal with sewage issues in your home alone. ServiceMaster of Athens is ready to respond day or night, 365 days a year, to restore your home quickly, safely, and with care. With decades of experience, we have the expertise to handle any sewage emergency, giving you peace of mind when you need it most.