Do these first

  1. Stop all water use.No flushing, no showers, no dishwasher or washer. Tell everyone in the house right away.
  2. Keep people and pets away.Close the door to the affected room. Children and pets should not touch or walk through wastewater.
  3. Ventilate.Open windows if it is safe to do so.
  4. Leave the cleanout capped.A full lateral can push sewage out of the cleanout when the cap comes off.
  5. Call a licensed plumber.Describe which fixtures backed up, in what order, and whether you have an outdoor cleanout.

Note while you wait

  • Time the backup started and which drain it appeared at
  • Which fixture was running when it happened
  • Whether neighbors report a similar problem
  • Photos of affected areas, taken from a dry spot
  • Any chemical poured into a drain recently

Quick decisions

  • IfWater is also leaking from a supply pipeThenClose the main water shutoff as well.
  • IfSeveral neighbors are backing up at onceThenTell the plumber and contact the City of Placentia about the public sewer.
  • IfThe backup reaches electrical outlets or appliancesThenStay out of the water and keep away from the electrical hazard until it is made safe.

Ask the plumber after the line is open

  1. What was blocking the line?
  2. Where along the line was it, and how far from the cleanout?
  3. Is a camera inspection worthwhile to find the cause?
  4. Is the problem on my lateral or the public side?

Fill in before you need it

Cleanout location
______________________
Main water shutoff
______________________
Plumber's CSLB license number
______________________
Insurance policy number
______________________

Common questions

Can I run the washer if only the shower backed up?

No. The washer sends a large volume into the same main and is often what pushes water up the lowest drain.

Should I try a store-bought snake on the main?

A short hand snake will not reach a main line clog, and larger machines can injure an untrained user. Leave a backed-up main to a professional.

Who cleans up after the line is cleared?

Ask before work starts whether cleanup is included. Larger sewage spills may call for a cleanup specialist; check with your insurer.

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