Sewer backups, floor-drain overflows and failed ejector pumps. The IICRC S500 standard classifies sewage as Category 3 water: a health hazard, not just a mess. Call any hour for a free on-site inspection.
Free, no-obligation inspection within our service area. Work is billed only if you approve it in a signed work authorization.
Any hour, day or night. Our answering service takes your message and our office calls you back.
★★★★★5.0 from 23 Google reviews
IICRC Certified Firm
BBB A+
Locally owned
Last updated · Written by the Elite Restoration Services of Iowa team
How is a sewage backup cleaned up safely?
Sewage is Category 3 water, so safe cleanup generally means protective equipment, containment, and removing porous materials it touched, like carpet, pad and the lower part of drywall. Hard surfaces are cleaned and disinfected, the area is dried, and waste is disposed of properly. Household cleaners and a shop vac aren't enough.
What can be saved after a sewage backup?
Hard, non-porous items and surfaces like tile, concrete, metal and sealed wood can usually be cleaned and disinfected. Porous materials that sewage soaked, such as carpet, pad, upholstered furniture, cardboard and drywall below the water line, generally can't, under the IICRC S500 standard.
Want someone to come look at it?
The on-site inspection is free, with no obligation, within our service area. Call any hour, or send a short request and our office will call you back.
Don't see yours? Call 515-216-4293 any hour and ask.
Does homeowners insurance cover sewer backups?
Often only if you have a sewer or water backup endorsement. It's worth checking your policy before you need it.
Is it safe to stay in the house?
That depends on the extent and on the people in the home. Keep everyone away from the affected area, and ask a doctor about specific health concerns.
What causes sewer backups?
Common causes include heavy rain overwhelming sewer lines, tree roots or grease in the line, and failed ejector or sump pumps. A plumber can find the cause.
Can sewage be cleaned out of carpet?
Carpet and pad soaked by sewage are generally removed rather than cleaned, because contamination can't be reliably removed from porous materials.
Insurance and deductibles
Elite does not waive, rebate, absorb, or pay insurance deductibles, and we do not offer discounts, gifts, or anything else of value to offset your deductible. You are responsible for your deductible and for any costs your insurance does not cover. We are not an insurance company or public adjuster, we cannot promise your insurance will cover your loss, and we do not negotiate insurance claims on your behalf. If you ask us to, we can provide photos, moisture readings, estimates, and invoices to you or your insurance company.
About Elite Restoration Services of Iowa
Elite Restoration Services of Iowa, LLC is a locally owned, independent restoration company at 751 NE 46th Ave, Des Moines, Iowa 50313, offering water, fire and smoke, mold, storm and sewage damage restoration. It has been fully operating since February 2026. Elite is an IICRC Certified Firm, BBB A+ accredited and Iowa registered contractor #C151765. Phone 515-216-4293, answered 24/7.
Calling is the most direct way to reach us, day or night. Prefer to type? Send this short form and our office will call you back.
751 NE 46th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313
Free on-site inspection
Your choice of repair contractor
Free on-site inspections within our service area in the Des Moines metro and Central Iowa; ask us about any limits when you call. The inspection is free with no obligation. Mitigation, lab testing, and repair work are billed only if you approve them in a signed work authorization.
Elite Restoration Services of Iowa, LLC and M&B Contractor Services LLC have the same owners. If you need repairs or rebuilding after mitigation, M&B is one option, but you are never required to use M&B. You are free to choose any contractor, and your choice will not affect the mitigation services Elite provides. We share your information with M&B only with your permission.
