Minute by minute
- Minute 1
- Tell everyone in the house to stop using water: no flushing, faucets, showers, dishwasher or washer.
- Minute 2
- If a toilet is overflowing, turn its supply valve clockwise behind the bowl.
- Minutes 3 to 5
- Move people and pets away from the affected room and close the door. Put on gloves and shoes before going back in.
- Minutes 5 to 8
- If clean water is flowing from a broken pipe or fixture, close the main water shutoff.
- Minutes 8 to 10
- Find the sewer cleanout outside. Do not open it if the line is full.
- Minutes 10 to 15
- Take photos, note which fixtures backed up, and contact a licensed plumber.
Tick as you go
What to tell the plumber
| Question they will ask | Your answer |
|---|---|
| Which fixtures are backing up? | |
| Is sewage inside the house? | |
| When did it start? | |
| Where is the cleanout? | |
| Has this happened before? | |
| Was any chemical drain opener used? |
While you wait
- Keep water off.Remind everyone, including guests, not to flush or run water.
- Contain what you can.Use towels to stop sewage spreading into carpeted rooms. Bag soaked towels for disposal.
- Clear a path.Make sure the plumber can reach the cleanout and the affected bathroom.
- Do not use chemicals.Pouring drain cleaner into a backed-up line creates a hazard for whoever clears it.
Keep these handy
- Main water shutoff
- Write its location here: ________
- Sewer cleanout
- Write its location here: ________
- Breaker panel
- Write its location here: ________
- License check
- cslb.ca.gov
Common questions
Should I call 911 for a sewage backup?
Not for the backup itself. Call 911 if there is a fire, electrical danger, a gas smell or a medical emergency.
Can I flush once to see if it cleared?
No. Wait until the line has been cleared and tested.
What if I cannot find the cleanout?
Tell the plumber. They can locate it or access the main line another way.
General information for Cypress, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.