Septic failures in Middle Tennessee homes
Much of Middle Tennessee outside the cities relies on septic systems. When a tank is overdue for pumping, a drain field is saturated by heavy rain, or roots and solids block the line, wastewater can back up through the lowest fixtures in the house.
Septic backups tend to affect bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements and crawlspaces. Because rural homes may be farther from services, the water can sit longer before anyone sees it, which increases how far it spreads.
Heavy, prolonged rain is a common trigger, because a saturated drain field cannot absorb more water. In those conditions, several homes in the same area may be dealing with the same problem at once, and we will be honest about scheduling and give you a realistic arrival window.
Dividing the work with your septic contractor
We do not pump, inspect or repair septic systems. A septic contractor diagnoses the failure and gets the system working again. Once wastewater is no longer coming in, we can begin extraction, and the two jobs can often overlap.
If your home uses a private well and you are concerned the failure or flooding may have affected it, contact your local health department for guidance on testing.
Cleanup inside the house
- Assessment We trace the affected area, check moisture in floors and walls, and look at the crawlspace if there is one.
- Extraction Wastewater is pumped and extracted from floors, tubs, drains and low spots.
- Material removal Carpet and pad, lower drywall, baseboards and, in crawlspaces, insulation and vapor barrier that were soaked are removed.
- Disinfection Remaining surfaces are cleaned first and then disinfected with EPA-registered products per label.
- Drying Dehumidifiers and air movers dry the structure while moisture readings are logged.
- Report Photos, moisture records and the scope of work are provided for your records and insurer.
Outside the house
Septic failures sometimes leave wastewater pooled near cleanouts, patios or entry doors. We can clean hard surfaces such as concrete and steps near the house. Drain field and yard issues remain with the septic contractor.
Doormats, outdoor rugs and items stored on porches that were splashed with wastewater are usually discarded, while hard outdoor furniture can be cleaned and disinfected.
Health reminders
CDC notes that water contaminated with human waste can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin rashes and wound infections, and it recommends rubber boots and gloves when contact cannot be avoided. Keep children and pets away from affected rooms and any pooled water outside.
- Limit water use in the house until the septic contractor gives the all-clear.
- Do not run the washing machine or dishwasher.
- Avoid walking through wastewater and then through clean rooms.
- Wash any clothing that touched wastewater in hot water with detergent.
Homes, farms and rural businesses
We work in rural and suburban homes, farmhouses, rental properties, churches and small businesses on septic systems across Middle Tennessee. Older homes often have crawlspaces rather than basements, and septic water in a crawlspace is covered in more detail on our crawlspace sewage cleanup page.
Afterward
Replacement flooring, drywall and insulation are installed by contractors once the structure is dry. Insurance treatment of septic failures varies widely, and many policies limit coverage for systems that failed because of wear or lack of maintenance. Ask your agent, and see our insurance page for general guidance.