Sewer Backups
Sewer Backups | Plumbing | Townsend
When murky water starts gurgling up through your drains, every second counts. HEP’s certified technicians arrive fast in Townsend, armed with cutting-edge cameras and hydro-jetting equipment to locate blockages, clear roots, and sanitize lines before bigger damage sets in. We don’t just restore flow—we pinpoint the cause, explain it in plain language, and give you upfront pricing so you can make confident decisions about your home’s plumbing.
From historic cabins near the Little River to new builds off Tuckaleechee Pike, HEP protects your property and your peace of mind. Our 24/7 emergency response means you’ll never face a sewer backup alone, and every repair is backed by a rock-solid satisfaction guarantee. Trust the hometown team that’s been keeping Townsend dry, healthy, and worry-free for decades—call HEP today and flush those sewer woes away for good.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of sewer backups in Townsend homes?
In Townsend, the leading causes of sewer backups include tree-root intrusion into older clay or cast-iron sewer laterals, grease buildup from kitchen drains, flushed non-flushable items (wipes, feminine products, paper towels), and heavy spring or fall rains that overwhelm the town’s combined storm–sewer system. Aging infrastructure in some historic neighborhoods can also contribute to cracks, pipe collapses, and blockages that push wastewater back into your home.
How can I tell if my sewer line is starting to back up?
Early warning signs include gurgling sounds from toilets or drains, water bubbling in one fixture when another is in use (e.g., water rises in a shower when you flush the toilet), foul sewage odors coming from floor drains, and slow drainage in multiple fixtures at once. If you notice water pooling around a basement floor drain or toilets that refuse to flush, call a professional immediately to avoid property damage.
What should I do right away if I experience a sewer backup?
1) Stop using all water in the house to keep additional waste from entering the line. 2) Shut off electricity to affected areas if standing water is present. 3) Keep people and pets away from contaminated water; raw sewage carries bacteria and viruses. 4) Call our 24/7 emergency sewer backup service—Townsend crews can usually arrive within an hour. 5) Document damage with photos for insurance. Avoid DIY chemical drain cleaners; they rarely help and can make professional cleaning harder.
How does your plumbing company clear a sewer backup?
Our certified technicians start with a video camera inspection to pinpoint the blockage location and determine whether it’s roots, grease, or a collapsed pipe. Depending on the findings, we use high-pressure hydro-jetting to scour grease and sludge, mechanical root cutting for invasive roots, or trenchless pipe bursting/lining if the pipe is structurally compromised. After clearing, we perform a second camera pass to ensure free flow and provide you with a digital recording for your records.
Can sewer backups be prevented?
Yes. Schedule preventive sewer line inspections every 18–24 months, especially if your home is over 30 years old. Avoid pouring grease or oil down drains, install a backwater valve to stop municipal surges from entering your home, and only flush human waste and toilet paper. If your yard has large trees, consider annual root-maintenance treatments. Our Townsend maintenance program offers discounted jetting and camera checks to keep your line clear year-round.
Will my homeowners insurance cover damage from a sewer backup?
Standard homeowners policies typically exclude sewer backup unless you add a specific sewer and drain endorsement—often as little as $40–$60 per year in Townsend. This endorsement can cover cleanup costs, damaged flooring, drywall, and personal property. We recommend confirming your coverage before you have an emergency. After any backup, we’ll work directly with your insurer, providing camera footage, moisture readings, and a detailed damage report to streamline your claim.