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Quick, low-risk steps
- Stop using all water fixtures—sinks, toilets, showers, washing machines.
- Keep people and pets away from the sewage-affected area.
- If sewage is near electrical equipment, avoid contact and call your electric utility or a licensed electrician.
- Check if neighbors are also experiencing backups; if so, contact your local public works department immediately.
- Document the damage with photos and notes for insurance purposes, but prioritize safety.
Immediate Safety Actions
A sewer backup can happen suddenly and create dangerous conditions. The first priority is to protect yourself and your family from electrical hazards and contamination. Sewage contains pathogens that can cause illness, so avoid direct contact.
If the backup is limited to a single fixture, stop using that fixture and any connected drains. If multiple drains are affected or you are unsure, stop all water use in the home. Do not flush toilets or run dishwashers or washing machines.
- Turn off the main water supply if you can safely reach the shut-off valve.
- Do not use chemical drain cleaners—they can worsen the problem and create toxic fumes.
- Open windows for ventilation if it is safe to do so, but avoid fans that could spread contaminants.
- If you must walk through sewage, wear waterproof boots and gloves, and wash thoroughly afterward.
Determining the Source
A backup could originate from your private sewer line or the public sewer main. If multiple homes on your street are affected, the problem is likely in the public system. In Chicago, the Department of Water Management handles public sewer issues.
If the backup is only in your home, the blockage is probably in your private line. Tree roots, grease buildup, or broken pipes are common causes. A professional camera inspection can pinpoint the location and cause.
- Ask neighbors if they have backups—this helps identify a public system issue.
- Contact your local public works or water department if you suspect a public main problem.
- Do not attempt to open cleanouts or manholes yourself.
- A plumber can determine if the blockage is in your private line using a sewer camera.
What Not to Do
In an emergency, it is tempting to try quick fixes, but many actions can make the situation worse or put you at risk. Avoid using any plumbing fixtures until the cause is identified.
Do not pour boiling water, drain cleaners, or other chemicals down the drain. These can damage pipes and create hazardous reactions. Also, do not use a plunger or snake if you are unsure of the blockage location—you could push the clog further or damage the line.
- Do not use electrical appliances or touch outlets in wet areas.
- Do not attempt to clear a sewer line yourself without proper training and equipment.
- Do not ignore the problem—sewage backups can cause extensive damage and health risks.
- Do not delay calling a professional if the backup is severe or you cannot identify the source.
Preparing for the Plumber
When you call a plumber or sewer repair service, provide clear information about what you observed. Note which fixtures are affected, when the backup started, and any recent plumbing work or weather events.
Ask the plumber to perform a camera inspection and provide a recording of the entire line. This evidence helps you understand the problem and compare repair options. Also, confirm who is responsible for the affected pipe section—private or public.
- Document the backup with photos and videos before cleanup begins.
- Ask for a written estimate that includes the scope of work and any necessary permits.
- Inquire about temporary measures to restore basic plumbing while repairs are planned.
- Check your homeowner's insurance policy to understand coverage for sewer backups.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Camera inspection and recording of the entire sewer line
- Defect location and pipe material identified
- Length, depth, and access points for repair
- Cleaning or preparation needed before repair
- Repair method options (trenchless vs. excavation)
- Utility locate performed (call 811 before digging)
- Permit and inspection requirements per Chicago code
- Bypass pumping or occupancy impact during work
- Backfill and surface restoration included in scope
- Warranty terms and exclusions on repair work
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Is a sewer backup an emergency?
Yes, a sewer backup is an emergency because of health risks from sewage and potential electrical hazards. Take immediate safety steps and call a professional.
Who pays for sewer backup damage?
It depends on your insurance policy and the cause. Many standard policies do not cover sewer backups unless you have a specific endorsement. Check your policy and contact your insurer.
Can I use water if only one drain is backing up?
It is safest to stop all water use until a professional assesses the situation. Using other fixtures can push more water into the blocked line and worsen the backup.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- 811 Before You DigCommon Ground Alliance
Utility-location education before excavation; not a substitute for local permits.
- Trenching and excavation safetyOccupational Safety and Health Administration
Professional worksite safety and a strict no-entry boundary for homeowners.
- Department of BuildingsCity of Chicago
Starting point for current Chicago permits and inspections.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.