24/7 Emergency Sewage Backup Cleanup
Serving Los Angeles & Ventura Counties • Category 3 “black water” handled safely and fast by IICRC-certified techs.
- IICRC-Certified Technicians
- Category 3 (Black Water) Protocols
- Licensed • Insured • Bonded
Why sewage cleanup is an emergency
Category 3 (“black water”) can carry bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens. Contact spreads contamination and odors quickly. Porous materials (carpet, pad, some drywall, insulation) often require removal and safe disposal.
Elish Remediation isolates affected areas, removes contamination safely, disinfects surfaces, and dries structures to help prevent secondary damage.
Risks & symptoms
- Respiratory & skin irritation
- Surface and air cross-contamination
- Secondary mold growth if left wet
For personal health questions, consult a medical professional. We handle environmental cleanup and drying.
Common causes of sewage backups
Main line clogs
Grease, wipes, and other debris obstructing the sewer line.
Tree root intrusion
Roots enter joints or cracks and block or break lines.
Storm overflows
Heavy rain overwhelms municipal or private systems.
Broken/collapsed pipes
Aging infrastructure, ground shift, construction impact.
Backflow valve failure
Missing or failed backwater prevention valves.
Septic issues
Full tanks, drain field failures, poor maintenance.
Prevention tips for homes & businesses
- Do not flush wipes or hygiene products — even if labeled “flushable”.
- Avoid pouring grease or oil down sinks.
- Install and maintain a backwater valve in flood-prone areas.
- Schedule annual inspections with a licensed plumber.
- Address tree roots near sewer lines proactively.
Backups can still happen, even with prevention. Save our 24/7 number: (310) 361-0505. We’re ready to help.
Our professional sewage cleanup process
- Assessment & Safety: Identify source, extent, and set PPE & safety plan.
- Containment & Source Control: Isolate rooms; stop further intrusion.
- Extraction & Disposal: Remove standing sewage; transport waste safely.
- Selective Demolition: Remove contaminated porous materials per standard-of-care.
- Cleaning & Disinfection: Mechanical removal + EPA-registered disinfectants on suitable surfaces.
- HEPA Filtration & Drying: Air filtration and thorough structural drying.
- Deodorization: Address odors after contamination is removed and surfaces are cleaned/dried.
- Documentation: Photos, readings, and job logs for owners/managers/insurers.
What’s removed vs. what can be cleaned
Typically removed & disposed (Cat 3)
- Carpet & pad exposed to sewage
- Contaminated drywall & insulation
- Pressboard/particleboard that wicked sewage
- Porous contents in direct contact
Often cleanable (after disinfection)
- Tile, sealed concrete, and metal surfaces
- Some cabinetry (case-by-case)
- Fixtures & non-porous trim
Every loss is unique. We’ll explain salvageability after inspection.
Insurance & documentation
- We provide detailed photos, moisture/temperature readings, and job notes.
- Coverage depends on your policy and endorsements (e.g., sewer backup). Your adjuster can confirm specifics.
- We can communicate directly with your adjuster to streamline the process.
Service areas
Proudly serving Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Monica, Thousand Oaks, Burbank, and nearby areas.
Sewage Backup Cleanup — Frequently Asked Questions
Can I clean a small sewage backup myself?
Category 3 contamination is hazardous. DIY efforts often spread contamination and raise costs. Professional containment, removal, and disinfection are recommended.
How soon can you arrive?
We provide 24/7 emergency response and prioritize sewage calls. Call (310) 361-0505.
Why remove carpet or drywall?
Porous materials that contacted sewage can’t be reliably disinfected and are typically removed to protect health and prevent persistent odors/mold.
Will there be a strong odor?
Odors are common initially. Once extraction, removal, disinfection, and drying are complete, odors are addressed with proper deodorization.
Do you provide testing or clearance?
Environmental sampling/clearance can be coordinated through a third-party hygienist/IEP upon request.
Will insurance cover this?
Policies vary. Sewer backup coverage may be an endorsement. We’ll document thoroughly and can work with your adjuster.
What should I do while waiting?
Keep people & pets out, stop water usage, avoid running HVAC over affected areas, and call us immediately.
Do you follow industry standards?
Yes. We follow professional water damage restoration standard-of-care and Category 3 procedures.
We’re on the way the moment you call
Safe, certified, and fast sewage cleanup — done right the first time.