Toilet Overflows: Putting Your Company Back Together

6/21/2019 (Permalink)

Many toilet overflows are preventable

Take the Following Steps When Facing a Flooded Toilet

No business owner in Acton, MT wants to deal with a flooding problem, but one due to a toilet overflowing is particularly unpleasant. Companies often deal with this problem on an elevated floor, making the sewer damage extend to floors and ceilings on multiple levels. Here are some steps to take when facing a flooded toilet.

1. Shut Off the Water and Contact the Professionals

The first step after noticing a problem is to stop the source by turning off the water. Since it’s a toilet that is overflowing, you can assume it is contaminated water. Unless it’s a very small overflow, the dirty water probably leaked into the floor and even the ceiling of the floor below. In this instance, you absolutely need to contact a disaster recovery company. A sewage company can specialize in cleaning up what is known as black water to avoid any health risks. It unfortunately may involve removing flooring or ceilings, but it is essential for the safety of your employees.

2. Call Your Insurance Company

The next step is to contact your insurance company. The cause of the flooded toilet often determines your level of coverage. Sewer damage is different than flooding caused by toilet clogs, so your insurance specialist would be the best person to interpret your policy as it relates to the cause of your problem.

3. Prevent Future Problems

Many toilet overflows are preventable. They are caused by people flushing items other than standard toilet paper. In these instances, training employees and posting signs in restrooms can prevent future problems. Chances are, once a large flood occurs, people will be extremely careful of causing another one. If you have a septic system, it could be a matter of better septic maintenance.

Although it isn’t a foreseeable problem, you can get through problems due to toilets overflowing. Whether it’s caused by sewer damage or human error, make sure to shut off the water and contact your professional restoration and insurance company. Your business will be restored and better poised to handle future issues.