Sewer Backups
Sewer Backups | Emergency Plumbing | Plumbing | Philadelphia
When foul water starts bubbling up through your drains or your basement floor drains turn into fountains, every second counts. HEP’s licensed technicians arrive fast—day or night—to locate the blockage, pump away standing waste, and clear or repair the main line so your home is safe again. From tree-root intrusions in West Philly to collapsed clay pipes in Center City rowhomes, we carry state-of-the-art camera scopes, hydro-jetters, and trenchless repair gear on every truck, saving you precious time while sparing your yard and foundation.
Philadelphians have trusted HEP for decades because we pair transparent, upfront pricing with true 24/7 emergency plumbing support. Our crew handles all permits with the Water Department, cleans and disinfects affected areas, and stands behind every repair with a rock-solid warranty. One call and you’ll understand why neighbors keep our number on the fridge—no matter how messy the backup, we get life flowing smoothly again.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of sewer backups in Philadelphia homes?
In Philadelphia, sewer backups are usually triggered by three main factors: (1) aging clay or cast-iron sewer lines that crack or collapse over time; (2) tree roots infiltrating joints and blocking flow, especially in the city’s older, tree-lined neighborhoods; and (3) grease, wipes, and other debris that build up in household drains and municipal mains. Heavy rain can also overwhelm combined sewer systems, forcing wastewater back into basements.
How can I tell if I am experiencing a sewer backup and not just a clogged drain?
Warning signs include multiple fixtures backing up simultaneously (e.g., toilets gurgling when you run the washing machine), wastewater coming up through basement floor drains, foul sewer odors throughout the house, and water level fluctuations in toilets. A single slow sink usually points to a local clog, while widespread symptoms indicate the main sewer line or the city lateral is obstructed.
What should I do immediately when a sewer backup occurs?
1) Stop using all water (no flushing, dishwashing, or laundry). 2) Turn off electricity to affected areas if water levels are rising. 3) Keep children and pets away—sewage is a biohazard. 4) Call an emergency plumber who offers 24/7 service and can bring augers, hydro-jetting equipment, and camera scopes. 5) Notify Philadelphia Water Department if the blockage appears to be in the street main. Photograph damage for insurance purposes but avoid contact with contaminated water.
Is cleanup and repair for sewer backups covered by homeowners insurance?
Standard homeowners policies generally exclude sewer and drain backups unless you have purchased an optional “water backup” endorsement, which is usually inexpensive. Coverage limits vary (commonly $5,000–$25,000). This endorsement can pay for cleanup, damaged belongings, and structural repairs. Check your policy or consult your agent before an incident occurs, and keep receipts for any emergency plumbing work and professional remediation.
How quickly can an emergency plumber reach my property in the Philadelphia area?
Our emergency crews are on call 24/7 and maintain service hubs in Center City, Manayunk, Northeast Philly, and the Main Line. Average response time is 45 minutes within city limits and under 60 minutes for most surrounding suburbs. During extreme weather events, we triage calls by severity but still strive to arrive within 1–2 hours. Technicians arrive fully equipped to begin pumping, snaking, or jetting immediately.
What preventive steps can I take to avoid future sewer backups?
• Schedule a professional camera inspection every 2–3 years to spot cracks or root intrusion early. • Install a backwater valve on the main sewer line to stop city main surges from entering your home. • Never flush wipes, feminine products, or grease—collect cooking oils in a sealable container and dispose of them in the trash. • Have trees near the sewer lateral root-pruned or replaced with less aggressive species. • Consider annual hydro-jetting to scour buildup if your home has a history of backups. Preventive maintenance costs far less than emergency cleanup.