Sewer Backups
Sewer Backups | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Morristown
When a gurgle turns into a basement flood, Morristown homeowners know there’s no time to spare. HEP’s seasoned technicians arrive fast with advanced camera inspection, hydro-jetting, and repair gear that clears stubborn blockages and stops sewage from backing up into your living spaces. We tackle everything from tree-root intrusions to collapsed lines, restoring flow while protecting your home and your health.
Our 24/7 emergency plumbing service means you’re never left waiting until morning. A single call dispatches a fully stocked truck, transparent pricing, and courteous pros who keep you informed at every step. Trust HEP to turn a messy crisis into a swiftly solved problem—so you can get back to life in a clean, safe, and fully functional home.
FAQs
What should I do first if I notice a sewer backup in my Morristown home?
The moment you see sewage coming up through a drain, stop running water and shut off any appliances that use water (washing machine, dishwasher). Keep people and pets away from the affected area, turn off electricity to the flooded part of the home if it’s safe to do so, and call our 24/7 emergency plumbing line. Do not attempt to clear the blockage with store-bought chemicals, as they can worsen the damage and create safety hazards.
What are the most common causes of sewer backups in Morristown?
Aging clay or cast-iron sewer lines, tree-root intrusion, heavy storm runoff overwhelming the municipal system, flushed wipes or hygiene products, and grease buildup are the leading culprits we see in Morristown. Occasionally, collapsed or offset pipes caused by ground shifting during freeze-thaw cycles also trigger backups.
How quickly can your emergency plumbers arrive?
Because we have technicians on call in Morristown around the clock, our average response time is 60 minutes or less. In severe weather we prioritize homes with active flooding or no usable drains, and we’ll give you real-time updates on our ETA so you know exactly when help is coming.
Will my homeowners insurance cover the cost of sewer backup repairs?
Standard homeowners policies typically exclude damage caused by sewer backups unless you have purchased a specific sewer-and-drain rider. We can document the source and extent of the backup, provide photographs, and work directly with your adjuster to streamline any claim. If you’re unsure about coverage, contact your insurance agent right away—adding the rider is usually inexpensive and strongly recommended in older Morristown neighborhoods.
What techniques do you use to clear and repair backed-up sewer lines?
We start with video camera inspection to locate the obstruction or pipe damage. For clogs, we use high-pressure hydro-jetting (safe for pipes but powerful enough to cut roots and grease). If the pipe is cracked or collapsed, we offer trenchless pipe lining and pipe-bursting options that minimize digging in your yard or basement floor. All work complies with Morristown building codes and includes a written warranty.
How can I prevent future sewer backups after the current emergency is resolved?
1) Schedule an annual camera inspection and jetting service, especially if you live in an older home with mature trees. 2) Never flush wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products—even those labeled “flushable.” 3) Pour used cooking grease into a sealed container and dispose of it in the trash. 4) Install a backwater valve; we can add one to your main line to stop municipal surges from entering your home. 5) If you have a sump pump, test it every three months and consider a battery backup. Following these steps dramatically reduces your risk of another backup.