Recent Cleaning Posts

Crawlspace Sewage Leaks can be Hard to Detect

5/16/2019 (Permalink)

Ready for any crawlspace sewage disaster!

It can be very difficult to detect a sewage pipe leak or burst in your crawlspace. When a sewage pipe leaks or bursts under someone's home, more often than not the tenants of the home do not notice any issue until considerable damage has been done.

Detection often occurs through:

  • Signs of a foul odor in the home with no obvious source.
  • Mold developing near and around the flooring and crawlspace.
  • Flooring and Floorboards starting to bend, deform, or bloat. 
  • Clogged toilets or sinks.

Being one of the most difficult cleaning services that we do, our SERVPRO technicians have to wear fully sealed containment suits and manually clear out all liquid and waste material from the crawlspace before cleaning, drying, and remediation can begin. Regardless, here at SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz are ready to quickly and efficiently service your home or business. 

Questions or concerns, call us at (323) 667-3100  

Sewage Cleanup & Restoration

12/6/2016 (Permalink)

This is an example of a sewer back up that would be considered a Category 3. SERVPRO of Hollywood Hills/Los Feliz was called to clean up.

Sewer backups should be considered an emergency since the water may contain viruses, bacteria, and other microbes that cause serious illnesses. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals have specialized training and equipment to quickly and safely clean contaminants like sewage. Water damage can be classified by the three types of contaminated water. SERVPRO Franchise Professionals will inspect your home or business to determine the appropriate plan of action for the type of water encountered.

The three types of contaminated water:

Category 1: "Clean Water"

Category 1 water is from a clean source like a broken water supply line or leaking faucet. If not treated quickly, this water can turn into category 2 or 3, depending on length of time, temperature, and contact with surrounding contaminants.

  • Water from a clean source like a broken water line
  • If left untreated, can degrade into category 2 or 3

Category 2: "Gray Water"

Category 2 water is contaminated and could cause discomfort or illness. Examples include washing machine overflow; toilet overflow with some urine, but no feces; or dishwasher overflow.

  • May contain bacteria and viruses
  • Can quickly degrade into category 3 if left untreated

Category 3: "Black Water"

Category 3 water is grossly contaminated and could cause severe illness or death if ingested and any contact should be avoided. Examples include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

  • May contain untreated sewage, harsh chemicals, and microbes
  • Water from flooding rivers or sewer backup