What to do, in order

Immediately
Stop using all water in the house. Every flush or shower adds to the overflow.
Immediately
If any water source keeps running, close the main water shutoff.
If water is near outlets or cords
Do not step in it. Turn off power to that area at the breaker panel only if you can reach the panel while standing somewhere dry.
Next
Open windows for ventilation and close doors to keep the area contained.
Next
Photograph the affected rooms, fixtures and any damaged belongings before cleaning.
Then
Arrange for the drain to be cleared by a licensed plumber, and tell your landlord in writing if you rent.

Protect yourself if you must clean up

  • Waterproof gloves and rubber boots
  • Eye protection to guard against splashes
  • A mask if you are scraping or the area is large
  • Throw away porous items soaked with sewage, such as rugs, cardboard and pet beds
  • Wash hard surfaces with detergent, then disinfect them
  • Wash hands thoroughly and launder work clothes separately

When to bring in professional cleanup

A small overflow onto tile from a toilet can usually be cleaned by a careful household. Sewage that soaks into carpet, padding, drywall or wood flooring is different: those materials hold contamination and moisture, and can grow mold if they are not dried properly. Many homeowners bring in a water damage restoration contractor for anything beyond a small, hard-surface spill.

On a slab home, a backup at a ground-floor shower or floor drain can spread under baseboards quickly. Pulling baseboards and checking the wall cavity is part of a thorough cleanup, and drying equipment may be needed for several days.

Insurance and paperwork

Policy language
Many policies treat sewer backup separately; read yours or ask your agent
Photos
Take them before cleanup, with dates
Receipts
Keep plumber and cleanup invoices and the cause they found
Renters
Notify the landlord in writing; check your renter's policy for your belongings

Common questions

Can I use the toilet once the water goes down?

Not until the line is cleared. Water may drain slowly through a partial clog and then back up again with the next flush.

Is bleach enough to clean it up?

Clean surfaces with detergent first; disinfectant works poorly on dirty surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaners.

Who pays if the backup came from the city sewer?

That depends on the cause and on city rules. Contact the City of Fullerton promptly if you believe the city main, rather than your lateral, was blocked.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.