By Double J Liner Repair · Troubleshooting · Published 2026-10-23
Few household problems are as stressful as sewage backing up into your home. It is unsanitary, it can damage floors and walls, and it usually happens at the worst possible time.
Here are the steps to take right away, and what to do afterward to prevent it from happening again.
Every flush, shower, or load of laundry sends more water into a line that cannot drain. Stop using all fixtures immediately and let everyone in the house know.
Sewage contains bacteria and other contaminants. Keep children and pets out of affected areas. If water is near electrical outlets or appliances, stay out of the area and consider shutting off power to that area if you can do so safely.
If neighbors are also experiencing backups, the problem may be in the public sewer main, and you should contact the utility right away. If only your home is affected, the problem is most likely in your private line.
A plumber can clear the blockage and restore flow. For cleanup of significant sewage, a professional water damage and remediation company is the safest option. Document the damage with photos for your insurance company.
Clearing the blockage is only the first step. A camera inspection afterward shows whether roots, a crack, a collapsed section, or a belly caused the backup. If the pipe is damaged, it will likely happen again until the pipe is repaired.
If the inspection finds structural damage, UV-cured lining can create a seamless new pipe inside the old one without digging. Call Double J Liner Repair at (210) 802-2018 for an inspection and free estimate.
Small amounts may be manageable with protective gear, but significant backups are best handled by professional remediation companies due to contamination risks.
It depends on your policy. Sewer backup coverage is often an optional endorsement. Check with your insurer.
Find and fix the cause. A camera inspection will show whether the pipe needs repair.
Double J Liner Repair offers sewer camera inspections and free estimates on no-dig sewer repair in San Antonio, backed by a 10-year warranty. Learn more about sewer repair or read more sewer and pipe repair guides.
Double J Liner Repair · 1800 NE Interstate 410 Loop #216, San Antonio, TX 78217 · Phone: (210) 802-2018 · Email: Info@doublejlinerrepair.com
Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 AM–6:00 PM, Saturday 9:00 AM–2:00 PM, Sunday closed.