Basement Sewer Backup

Is your basement flooding due to a sewer backup? Don’t worry, First Chicago Plumbing is here to save the day! We know that dealing with a basement sewer backup can be a stinky situation, but our team of experts can quickly and efficiently solve the problem so you can get back to enjoying your home.

• Sewer backup service
• Basement drain backup fix
• Toilet backing up into shower fix

It’s important to fix a basement sewer backup as soon as possible to avoid any health hazards or further damage to your property. Not only is it unpleasant, but it can also be a safety hazard, as the water can contain harmful bacteria and germs. Our team uses the latest equipment and techniques to not only remove the blockage but to also thoroughly clean and disinfect the affected area. We service the North Chicago area and suburbs, including Skokie, Lincolnwood, Niles, Evanston, Morton Grove, Park Ridge, Des Plaines, Prospect Heights, Mt Prospect, Wheeling, Lincolnshire, Glenview, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Northfield, Deerfield, Highland Park, and more. So don’t let a basement sewer backup bring you down – give us a call today!

Causes of Basement Sewer Backups

Sewer backups don’t just happen out of nowhere. There’s usually an underlying issue that slowly builds up—or hits all at once.

Here are the most common causes:

• Heavy Rain or Flooding: Chicago storms can overwhelm the city’s sewer system, especially in older neighborhoods. When the system is full, excess water may reverse direction and back up through basement drains, floor sinks, or toilets.
• Tree Root Intrusion: Roots naturally seek out moisture—and your sewer lines are a perfect target. Over time, roots can crack into the pipes, causing slow drainage, repeated clogs, or full-on backups.
• Collapsed or Broken Sewer Lines: Aging sewer lines, especially clay or cast iron ones, are prone to cracks and collapses. Ground movement, settling, or heavy vehicle traffic above the line can also cause structural damage, leading to complete blockages underground.
• Grease, Hair, and Debris Buildup: Pouring grease down the kitchen drain or letting hair and soap scum go unchecked can slowly choke your pipes. Add years of buildup, and water has nowhere to go but back into your basement.
• Flushing Non-Flushable Items: Wipes labeled “flushable,” paper towels, feminine hygiene products, and cotton swabs should never go down the toilet. They don’t break down and can create major blockages in your main sewer line.

A backup might seem sudden, but it’s often years in the making. Regular inspections and smart habits can go a long way toward preventing a flooded basement.

Signs You Have a Sewer Backup

A basement backup rarely starts with a dramatic flood. More often, the warning signs show up gradually—if you know what to look for.

• Gurgling Sounds from Drains or Toilets: Air trapped in your pipes due to a blockage can cause bubbling or gurgling noises when water is draining.
• Slow Draining Fixtures: If water drains slowly from your sink, tub, or floor drain—even after using a plunger—it could be a sign of a deeper blockage in the main line.
• Bad Odors from Basement Drains: Sewage smells coming from basement floor drains or lower-level tubs can signal that wastewater is backing up instead of flowing out properly.
• Water Pooling Around Floor Drains: If you notice standing water near your basement drain—even without recent rain—it’s a red flag that wastewater has nowhere to go.
• Multiple Backups at Once: When more than one drain or toilet in your home is clogged or backing up at the same time, the problem is likely in the main sewer line, not a single fixture.
• Toilet Backing Up into the Shower or Tub: Wastewater from the toilet finding its way into the shower or tub is a sure sign of a serious blockage. The plumbing system is trying to release pressure wherever it can.

These signs might start small, but they won’t stay that way. Early action can prevent property damage, mold, and costly repairs.

Our Basement Sewer Backup Repair Process

Dealing with sewage in your basement is stressful—you need it fixed fast, and fixed right.

Here’s how First Chicago Plumbing takes care of every step, from first call to final cleanup:

1. Full Inspection & Diagnosis: We begin by locating the source of the problem. This includes checking floor drains, cleanouts, toilets, and main lines. When needed, we use video camera inspections to get a clear view inside your sewer lines without digging—so we know exactly what we’re dealing with before starting the repair.
2. Emergency Water Removal: If there’s standing sewage in your basement, we safely remove it using pumps and vacuums designed for contaminated water. This step is urgent—stagnant sewage can quickly damage walls, flooring, and belongings.
3. Clearing the Blockage: We use professional-grade drain snakes or hydro jetting to break up and flush out whatever’s clogging your sewer line. Whether it’s years of grease, tree roots, or solid waste, we’ll get your lines flowing freely again.
4. Structural Repairs (If Needed): If we find that your backup was caused by a collapsed, cracked, or misaligned pipe, we’ll explain your repair options clearly. Our team can handle spot repairs or full replacements.
5. Backup Prevention Options: To reduce the chance of future sewer backups, we offer preventative upgrades like:
   • Backwater valve installation – blocks sewage from flowing back into your home
   • Sump pump checks and replacements – makes sure your basement can handle future storms
   • Routine drain inspections and maintenance plans – catch problems before they escalate
6. Final Testing & Confirmation: We finish by rechecking all drains, running water through the system, and confirming proper flow throughout your home. If anything looks off, we fix it before we leave.

You’ll get clear answers, expert work, and a clean basement—guaranteed.

Need fast help? Call First Chicago Plumbing now for same-day service.

Don’t wait until it gets worse—call now.

A basement sewer backup won’t fix itself. The longer you wait, the more damage—and cost—you risk. First Chicago Plumbing is ready to respond fast, fix the problem, and protect your home from future issues. Call us today or request service online to get expert help when you need it most.