Sewer backup cleanup in Sioux Falls

Updated 2026-11-02

Sewage is treated as grossly contaminated water (Category 3 in the IICRC S500 restoration standard), so porous materials it touched are usually removed rather than cleaned, and workers wear protective gear (IICRC S500 overview).

What should you do right away?

• Stop using sinks, toilets, showers and the washing machine
• Keep children and pets out of the area
• Do not touch it without waterproof boots, gloves, eye protection and a mask (SDDOH)
• Call a restoration company and a plumber to find the cause

What does sewer backup cleanup involve?

1. Removing sewage and contaminated water
2. Removing carpet, pad, drywall and insulation that it touched
3. Cleaning and disinfecting hard surfaces
4. Drying the structure, then rebuilding

Is sewer backup covered by insurance?

Often not, unless you bought a separate water backup endorsement. Neither flood insurance nor a typical homeowners policy covers sewer backup by default (state insurance regulator guidance). Ask your agent whether you have "water backup and sump discharge" coverage.