Sewage backup is a serious issue that can cause significant damage to your property and pose health risks. Identifying the underlying causes and understanding the potential effects is critical to taking proactive measures to prevent or mitigate such backups.

### Causes of Sewage Backup

Several factors can lead to sewage backups in residential properties:

– **Clogged drains and pipelines:** Grease, hair, and other debris can accumulate in drains and pipelines over time, causing blockages that prevent wastewater from flowing properly.
– **Roots from trees and shrubs:** Tree roots can penetrate and damage sewer lines, creating cracks or breaks that allow sewage to leak out.
– **Defective or damaged pipes:** Old or improperly installed pipes may deteriorate, develop cracks, or become misaligned, leading to leakage or backup.
– **Overloaded septic systems:** Septic tanks that are not properly maintained or are undersized for the volume of wastewater they receive can fail, resulting in backups in the connected pipes.
– **Heavy rainfall or flooding:** Extended periods of heavy rain or flooding can overwhelm sewer systems, leading to backups and even overflows.

### Effects of Sewage Backup

Sewage backups can have detrimental effects on your home and well-being:

– **Property damage:** Sewage contains harmful bacteria and contaminants that can damage floors, walls, furniture, and other belongings.
– **Health risks:** Exposure to sewage can cause various health issues, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin infections.
– **Electrical hazards:** Sewage backups can come into contact with electrical outlets or wiring, creating potential electrical hazards.
– **Environmental contamination:** Sewage overflows can contaminate water bodies, soil, and air, posing risks to both human health and the environment.

### Why is Sewer Backing Up in House?

When sewage backs up into a house, it typically indicates a problem with the home’s plumbing system or the municipal sewer line. Common causes include:

– **Clogged drains or pipes within the house:** Blockages caused by buildup of grease, debris, or hair can obstruct the flow of wastewater.
– **Tree root intrusion:** Tree roots can penetrate and damage underground sewer pipes, creating leaks or blockages.
– **Defective or damaged sewer line:** Cracks, breaks, or misalignment in the sewer line connecting the house to the municipal sewer system can allow sewage to leak or back up.
– **Overloaded septic system:** A septic tank that is unable to handle the volume of wastewater produced by the household can lead to backups in the house.
– **Heavy rainfall or flooding:** Infiltration of rainwater or floodwater into the sewer system can overwhelm its capacity, causing backups in connected homes.