Question 1

Is a sewage backup always a septic tank problem?

Accepted Answer

No. If only one fixture is affected, it's usually a local plumbing clog. If multiple fixtures back up together, especially the lowest drains in the house, or sewage is surfacing outside, that points to the septic system.

Question 2

What should I do right this second if sewage is backing up?

Accepted Answer

Stop using water in the house, keep kids and pets away from any sewage on the floor or ground, don't touch it with bare hands, and call a professional.

Question 3

Can I pour bleach or a drain cleaner down the toilet to fix it?

Accepted Answer

No. It kills the bacteria your tank needs to work, and it won't unblock a full tank or a blocked line.

Question 4

Is it safe to open the tank and look myself?

Accepted Answer

No. Septic tanks are a recognized confined space that can hold dangerous gas. Leave the lid to a professional.

Question 5

What if this happened right after a big storm?

Accepted Answer

It might be a saturated drainfield rather than a full tank. Cut back on water use and call us; we can often tell over the phone whether it's worth a truck today.

Question 6

Do you clean up the sewage that's already on my floor?

Accepted Answer

No. We fix the septic system. If sewage has reached carpet, drywall, or subfloor, that cleanup is a separate job for a water-damage restoration company.

Question 7

Are you permitted to do this work?

Accepted Answer

Yes, under NC DEQ septage permit NCS-01963.

Septic Tank Backing Up? Here's What to Do Right Now

First, is this actually a septic problem?

Do this right now

What not to do

What's probably causing it

If this happened during or after heavy rain

Who actually fixes this

What same-day service costs

Keeping this from happening again

Frequently asked questions

Is a sewage backup always a septic tank problem?

What should I do right this second if sewage is backing up?

Can I pour bleach or a drain cleaner down the toilet to fix it?

Is it safe to open the tank and look myself?

What if this happened right after a big storm?

Do you clean up the sewage that's already on my floor?

Are you permitted to do this work?

Septic Tank Backing Up? Here's What to Do Right Now

About us

First, is this actually a septic problem?

Do this right now

What not to do

What's probably causing it

If this happened during or after heavy rain

Who actually fixes this

What same-day service costs

Keeping this from happening again

Frequently asked questions

Question

Is a sewage backup always a septic tank problem?

Question

What should I do right this second if sewage is backing up?

Question

Can I pour bleach or a drain cleaner down the toilet to fix it?

Question

Is it safe to open the tank and look myself?

Question

What if this happened right after a big storm?

Question

Do you clean up the sewage that's already on my floor?

Question

Are you permitted to do this work?

About us