Sewage Backups
Sewage Backups | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Knoxville
When raw sewage starts rising in your Knoxville home, every minute matters. HEP’s licensed technicians arrive fast, armed with cutting-edge cameras, high-power jetters, and the experience to trace blockages from your main line to the city tap. We isolate the source, clear the clog, and sanitize the affected area, all while keeping you informed and your property protected.
Day or night, weekends or holidays, our emergency plumbing team is on standby to restore your drains and your peace of mind. With transparent, upfront pricing and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, HEP turns a messy crisis into a swift solution—so you can get back to normal sooner and safer.
FAQs
What should I do immediately if sewage is backing up into my Knoxville home?
First, stop using all water fixtures to reduce the inflow. If it is safe, shut off the main water supply valve. Keep family members and pets out of the affected area to avoid health risks. Do not attempt to clear the blockage with household chemicals, as they can worsen the problem. Call our Knoxville emergency plumbing team right away—our dispatch is staffed 24/7, and we can walk you through additional safety steps while a technician is on the way.
What are the most common causes of sewage backups in Knoxville?
In Knoxville, tree-root intrusion into older clay or cast-iron sewer lines is the leading culprit. Heavy seasonal rains can also overwhelm municipal lines, forcing wastewater back into homes. Other frequent causes include grease buildup, improper items ("flushable" wipes, feminine products) being sent down drains, and collapsed or misaligned pipes due to soil movement or age. Our camera inspection can pinpoint the exact cause so we can recommend the right repair or replacement.
How quickly can your emergency plumbers arrive at my property?
Because we’re based in Knoxville and keep fully stocked service trucks on standby, our average response time within city limits is 60 minutes or less. For surrounding areas in Knox County, travel time typically ranges from 60–90 minutes. We operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year—including holidays—to make sure sewage backups are contained and resolved before they cause extensive damage.
Is a sewage backup dangerous to my health and property?
Yes. Raw sewage contains bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause serious illnesses such as hepatitis A, gastroenteritis, and skin infections. The moisture also promotes mold growth within 24–48 hours, and wastewater can ruin flooring, drywall, and personal belongings. Quick professional cleanup and disinfection, followed by proper drying, are essential to protect your family’s health and prevent costly structural repairs.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the cost of emergency sewage backup repairs?
Standard homeowner policies often cover water damage from sudden, accidental pipe bursts but exclude sewage backups unless you carry an added "sewer and drain backup" endorsement. Check your policy or call your agent to verify coverage limits and deductibles. We can provide detailed documentation, photos, and itemized invoices to streamline your claim, and we’ll work directly with most insurers to minimize out-of-pocket costs for you.
How can I prevent future sewage backups after the emergency is resolved?
Schedule regular sewer line inspections—especially if your home is over 30 years old or surrounded by mature trees. Consider preventive hydro-jetting to remove grease and debris. Dispose of cooking oil, wipes, and hygiene products in the trash, not the toilet or sink. If roots were responsible, we may recommend trenchless pipe lining or root-barrier treatments. Installing a backwater valve can also stop municipal surges from entering your home during heavy rains.