Then, in order
- Tell the household.No flushing, showers, dishwasher or laundry until the line is cleared.
- Ventilate.Open windows in the affected room if it is safe to reach them.
- Check supply leaks.If a water pipe is leaking too, close the main water shutoff.
- Check the cleanout.Note whether it is full of water. Open only if you can stand clear.
- Photograph.Take photos of the damage before cleanup, for insurance.
- Call a licensed plumber.Use one whose license you have checked at cslb.ca.gov.
Fill in before you need it
| What | Where or who |
|---|---|
| Main water shutoff location | |
| Sewer cleanout location | |
| Gloves and boots kept at | |
| Plumber you have vetted | |
| Plumber's CSLB license number | |
| Insurance policy number | |
| City of Buena Park contact for sewer questions |
Do not
- Do not keep plunging a toilet during a main-line backup
- Do not pour drain chemicals into standing sewage
- Do not walk through sewage barefoot
- Do not throw out damaged items before photographing them
Quick reads
- Lowest drain overflowing
- Main line likely blocked
- Cleanout full
- Blockage is toward the street
- Cleanout dry, house backing up
- Blockage is between house and cleanout
- Only one sink slow
- Probably a branch clog
After the emergency
Once the line drains, ask for a camera inspection so you know what caused the backup. Porous materials soaked by sewage, such as carpet pad and drywall, usually need professional cleanup. Add the event to your symptom log while the details are fresh.
Common questions
Where should I post the card?
Somewhere everyone can find it, such as inside a laundry cabinet, near the water heater or on the garage wall by the main shutoff.
Should guests or sitters see it?
Yes. Anyone staying in the house should know to stop using water if a drain backs up.
Who do I call if the problem may be in the street?
Contact the City of Buena Park about the public sewer. Your plumber can help show where the blockage is with a camera.
General information for Buena Park, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.