What Are The Dangers Of Raw Sewage Under A House?
Raw sewage can get under a house in various ways. For instance, a property’s main sewer line could become blocked. Then, if there is a clean-out plug missing under the house, a bad glue joint, a busted fitting, or something else going on, unsanitary water can escape into the crawl space. Additionally, a pipe under the home could crack and spurt water each time a toilet is flushed.
Regardless of how raw sewage gets beneath a structure, it is of the utmost importance for the property owner to address the matter promptly.
The liquid and solid waste will need to be removed. Then, the area will have to be disinfected, and the person will want to apply lime to the soil. In addition, fans/dehumidifiers will need to be set up to remove the remaining moisture from the location.
But why must one take these steps? Why can’t they simply leave the matter as-is? The obvious answers are because that would be unsanitary and smelly. However, allowing raw sewage to remain under a house can also be dangerous.
The following are some of the dangers presented by sewage leaking beneath a home…
Toxic Chemical Exposure
One of the top reasons to keep under your home free of raw sewage is that if you don’t, you or someone you love could be exposed to toxic chemicals.
Harmful substances often found in sewers include ammonia and chlorine, but there are also many others. Coming into contact with raw sewage or breathing in its fumes may result in respiratory issues, cancer, skin irritation, or other health problems.
Mold And Mildew
It doesn’t matter if raw sewage or a water pipe is leaking under your home. You should address the situation and remove the moisture from the crawl space.
Failing in this regard should never be an option because that could create the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. Nobody needs mold hanging around because mold allergies might enter the picture. Symptoms associated with these often include:
- Itchy, Red, And Watery Eyes
- Coughing
- Skin Irritation
- Difficulty Breathing
- Fever
Aside from health issues, homeowners should eliminate mold and mildew promptly to ensure the items don’t damage their houses. If growths are allowed to stay on boards for extended periods, they can eventually cause them to rot. Then, they’ll need to be replace, hitting you where it hurts, the pocketbook.
Exposure To Pathogens
The final danger of raw sewage under a home to discuss is the substance can be chock full of pathogens. Hence, it should be cleaned up sooner rather than later to prevent occupants from getting sick.
Those who obtain Giardiasis, Campylobacteriosis, or other conditions via sewage usually experience symptoms such as cramping/abdominal pain, nausea, fever, and bloody stool.
A Few Final Thoughts About the Need to Removal Raw Sewage
Hopefully, you’re now able to see the dangers of raw sewage under a house. So, the next time an unexpected leak or backup occurs, don’t panic. Instead, contact a company that specializes in sewage removal and watch their team make your troubles disappear.
