Most sewage backups give warning signs first. Catching them early saves you from a Category 3 cleanup.
The 6 warning signs
- Multiple slow drains at once
- Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains
- Water backing up in the shower when you flush
- Sewage odor in the basement or yard
- Soggy, unusually green patches in the lawn
- Water around the basement floor drain
Common causes
Tree root intrusion, grease buildup, flushed wipes, collapsed older clay pipes and overwhelmed municipal lines during storms.
If a backup happens
Stop using water, keep family and pets away, and call for professional sewage cleanup immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are 'flushable' wipes safe?
No — they don't break down and are a top cause of residential backups.
How do I prevent root intrusion?
Schedule camera inspections and root cutting every 1–2 years for older lines.
Need help now?
24/7 emergency response across Southern Indiana. On-site in 60 minutes.