Sewage Backup in Your Arizona Home: What to Do

By the Restoration Services Arizona editorial team. Reviewed October 2026. 5 minute read.

Immediate steps

1. Stop using water. Do not flush toilets, run the dishwasher or washing machine, or use sinks and showers. More water goes into the same blocked line.
2. Keep people and pets out. Children, older adults, pregnant women and people with weakened immune systems are at higher risk.
3. Turn off power to the area if the water is near outlets, and only if you can do it safely from a dry spot.
4. Do not touch sewage with bare skin. If you must go in, wear rubber boots, gloves and eye protection.
5. Take photos from a safe distance.
6. Call a plumber to find and clear the blockage, and call a company that does sewage cleanup.

What causes backups in Arizona homes

• Tree roots growing into clay and older sewer lines, especially in mature neighborhoods
• Collapsed or cracked sewer laterals
• Grease, wipes and other items in the line
• Septic tank or drain field failure on rural properties
• Overloaded municipal systems during heavy storms

Why this is not a do it yourself job

Sewage can carry bacteria, viruses and parasites. It also spreads as it soaks into drywall, baseboards, carpet and padding. Household cleaners do not disinfect porous materials. Professionals contain the area, wear protective clothing and respirators, remove contaminated materials and dispose of them properly, and disinfect what remains. The standard of care follows IICRC S500 for water damage and, for trauma and biohazard cleanup, IICRC S540.

What gets thrown away

• Carpet and pad that were soaked
• Drywall and insulation that wicked up the contamination
• Soft furnishings and stuffed toys that touched sewage
• Cardboard and paper items

Hard surfaces, such as tile and sealed concrete, can usually be cleaned and disinfected.

Other biohazard situations

Trauma, unattended death and some hoarding or heavily soiled conditions also call for trained crews. They work discreetly, handle regulated waste correctly and address odor. If you have lost someone, you do not have to deal with the aftermath yourself.

Insurance

Sewer or drain backup coverage is often an optional endorsement. Check your policy, document everything and report the loss quickly. A plumber's invoice and a camera inspection of the line can support your claim.