Sewer Backup - Hernandez Plumbing

Sewer Backup

Part of our Sewer Line Services services

A sewer backup is a serious emergency that requires immediate professional attention. Raw sewage in your home poses health risks and causes extensive damage.

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Warning Signs

  • Multiple drains backing up
  • Sewage smell
  • Toilets backing up
  • Gurgling drains
  • Water in floor drains

Common Causes

  • Main line blockage
  • Tree root intrusion
  • Collapsed pipe
  • Grease buildup
  • Foreign objects

Why Immediate Action Matters

Sewage contains harmful bacteria and parasites. Quick professional cleanup prevents health hazards and minimizes property damage.

Our Approach to Sewer Backup

We respond immediately to contain the situation, clear the blockage, and inspect the line to prevent future occurrences.

What to Do While You Wait

  • 1Immediately stop using all water in the house. Every flush or running faucet will add to the backup.
  • 2Shut off your main water valve to ensure no water accidentally enters the system.
  • 3Keep children and pets far away from the backed-up sewage, as it contains dangerous bacteria.
  • 4If the backup is threatening to flood your home's interior, try to contain it with old towels or barriers, but avoid direct contact.

How to Prevent Future Issues

  • Have your main sewer line inspected and cleaned every 1-2 years, especially if your home has older trees with deep roots.
  • Replace aging cast-iron pipes before they collapse and cause a catastrophic backup.
  • Only flush toilet paper and human waste. Never flush paper towels, feminine hygiene products, or "flushable" wipes.
  • Do not plant large trees near your sewer line, as roots naturally seek out moisture and can infiltrate pipes.

Sewer Backup FAQs

Common questions our Miami plumbers get about sewer backup

It depends on your policy. Standard policies often do not cover sewer backups unless you have a specific water backup endorsement. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.
We typically start by snaking the line to clear the immediate blockage and restore flow. Then, we use a specialized sewer camera to inspect the pipe and determine the root cause. For severe buildup or tree roots, we may recommend hydro jetting.
If the backup is contained to a small area like a basement floor drain, it may be safe to stay. However, if sewage has spread to living areas, you should evacuate to avoid exposure to harmful pathogens and bacteria until the area is professionally cleaned.

Related issue: aging cast iron pipes

Cast iron pipes in South Florida homes built before 1975 are reaching or have passed their expected lifespan. Deterioration causes recurring drain problems, sewage backups, and can lead to foundation damage if not addressed. Common causes include Age (50+ years); South Florida humidity and soil conditions—often the same underlying deterioration that leads to recurring backups and main line problems.

Sewer Backup Detection by Location

Select your city for local information about sewer backup detection and solutions

MiamiMiami BeachHialeahKendallHomesteadDoralNorth MiamiPinecrestSurfsideSouth MiamiCutler BaySweetwaterNorth Miami BeachPompano Beach

Need Sewer Backup in South Florida?

Don't let plumbing problems disrupt your South Florida home. Contact our expert team today for fast, professional service.

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