Aloha!
When we talk about a sewage flood, we mean “black water,” or category 3 from the The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC):
• Category 1. This is liquid from a clean and sanitary source, such as faucets, toilet tanks, drinking fountains, etc. But, category one can quickly degrade into category two.
• Category 2. This category of liquid used to be called grey water, and is described as having a level of contaminates that may cause illness or discomfort if ingested. Sources include dishwasher or washing machine overflows, flush from sink drains, and toilet overflow with some urine but not feces.
• Category 3. This is the worst classification and is grossly unsanitary. It could cause severe illness or death if ingested. It used to be called black water, and sources include sewer backup, flooding from rivers or streams, toilet overflow with feces, and stagnant liquid that has begun to support bacterial growth.
This is a worst-case scenario for homeowners – a clogged pipe causing a sewage backup; the category 3 water can flood from any connected pipe and contaminated water might flow over bare floors and carpeting, touching furniture and other possessions on the floor. Yuck. What do you do?
Don’t walk in it! While that may seem obvious, the majority of people with a sewage flood begin moving furniture and gathering their possessions while tracking sewage into unaffected areas of the house. This creates unsanitary conditions in even more places in your home – let The Professionals take care of your furniture.
Call The Professionals – Rescue Services! 24/7/365 (808) 246-0405 – we are here for you. We are trained to deal with sewage, and have the proper equipment to sanitize your home and make it safe for your family. In an emergency, we can usually begin cleanup in an hour.
Call your insurance company! Open a claim, and let them know The Professionals are on the way to clean up the mess. Ask your agent if your insurance policy covers the cost of a hotel during the cleanup period.
Call a drain cleaning service! The origin of the flood will need to be determined and fixed. On Kauai, we use Wayne’s Drain Cleaning Service (808) 742-6732.
Insurance coverage differs depending upon the origin of the sewage. If it comes from within the house it is normally covered; if it is from an outside source, maybe a backed up cesspool, it may not be covered. Prevention is a great way to never experience a sewage backup – maintain your cesspool and have your drains snaked by a professional to remove any buildup (if you’re in a condo, ask your homeowners association).
The most common drain backup is in a multi-story house, especially if it is an older property with cast iron pipes. The most common components of a clog are rice, pasta, and dental floss – be aware of what is going down your drains and toilet, and use the trash can for all food products and non-biodegradable materials.
The Professionals – Rescue Services team is trained to deal with the biological hazards of a sewage flood, sanitize your home, and make it safe for your family – and we’ll do it as quickly as possible. With over 25 years serving our neighbors of Kauai, know that we have the experience to help you in any homeowner emergency.
The Professionals – Rescue Services has been serving the entire island of Kauai for over 25 years. If you encounter any situation that calls for non-medical emergency service and don’t know who to call – call us at 808-246-0405 – 24/7.
