The short answer
What Makes Sewage Fumes Harmful
Sewage contains a mix of bacteria, viruses, and decomposing waste. As it breaks down, it releases gases like hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotten eggs. That gas can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat, and at higher levels it can make you feel lightheaded or nauseated.
Methane is another common gas, and while it is not toxic to breathe in small amounts, it can displace oxygen in a closed space. Ammonia and other compounds add to the irritation. The longer you stay in a room with these fumes, the stronger the effects can be, especially for children, older adults, or anyone with asthma or other breathing conditions.
- Headache or dizziness
- Nausea or upset stomach
- Eye, nose, or throat irritation
- Coughing or shortness of breath
- Fatigue or confusion
How to Protect Yourself Right Away
If you smell sewage indoors, do not ignore it. Leave the room and get to fresh air as soon as you can. Open windows and doors to help air out the space, but do not stay inside while you do it. Turn off any fans that might pull air from the affected area into other rooms.
Avoid touching sewage water or contaminated surfaces without protection. Wear gloves, a mask, and long sleeves if you must go back in. Wash your hands thoroughly afterward. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Do not try to clean a large sewage spill yourself, as the fumes can build up quickly in enclosed spaces.
Why Professional Cleanup Matters
Cleaning sewage is not a simple mop-up job. The waste soaks into floors, drywall, and baseboards, and the smell can linger for weeks if not handled correctly. The pros have the right equipment to remove contaminated materials and to sanitize the area so it is safe to live in again.
The pros also use air scrubbers and dehumidifiers to dry out the space and remove odors. In cold winter climates or areas prone to coastal storms, sewage backups can be a real risk. The pros can handle the cleanup and drying so you do not have to breathe in those fumes any longer than necessary.
- Remove contaminated flooring and drywall
- Sanitize surfaces with proper disinfectants
- Use air filtration to clear odors
- Dry the structure to prevent mold
- Dispose of waste safely
When to Call for Help
Call for help as soon as you notice a sewage smell or a backup. The longer sewage sits, the more damage it does and the stronger the fumes become. Acting quickly also reduces the chance of mold growing in the damp areas.
Local water damage pros can assess the situation and start cleanup. They can also check for hidden moisture in walls and floors. If you live in Quincy, keep the number for a trusted service handy. Do not wait until the smell is unbearable or someone in your home starts feeling sick.
Preventing Future Sewage Issues
Some sewage backups are caused by clogs or tree roots in the pipes. You can reduce risks by not flushing wipes, grease, or paper towels. Have a plumber inspect your sewer line if you have had repeated problems. Also, check your sump pump if you have one, as a failed pump can lead to a backup.
In flood-prone areas, a backwater valve can stop sewage from entering your home during heavy rain. If you have a basement, keep it dry and check for leaks. Regular maintenance is cheaper than dealing with a full cleanup. But if a backup does happen, the pros can restore your home to a safe condition.
Water damage does not wait
Call (617) 404-2753 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (617) 404-2753Frequently asked questions
How long do sewage fumes last?
The smell can last for days or even weeks if the source is not cleaned properly. Once the sewage is removed and the area is dried and sanitized, the odor should fade. If the smell persists, there may be hidden contamination.
Can sewage fumes make you sick?
Yes, short-term exposure can cause headaches, nausea, and eye irritation. Long-term exposure to high levels of hydrogen sulfide can be more serious. If you feel sick, get fresh air and see a doctor if symptoms continue.
What should I do if I smell sewage in my house?
Leave the area and get fresh air. Open windows if safe. Do not run fans that might spread the smell. Contact the pros to inspect and clean the source. Do not try to clean it yourself if the spill is large.