When the drain backs up, the water coming in isn't water: it's water contaminated with waste and bacteria. The EPA recommends calling a professional when the water comes from a sewer or is contaminated, and there's a simple reason: the risk isn't the stain, it's what you can't see.
What Category 3 means
In the industry, Category 3 is water that carries harmful contamination. It shouldn't be touched or breathed near. It soaks into porous materials within hours and leaves a drain smell that a common cleaner won't remove.
| Sign | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Strong drain smell | Bacteria in the air | Containment and ventilation |
| Dark or murky water | Active contamination | Extraction with protection |
| Wet porous material | Can't be disinfected | Material removal |
| Lingering odor | Contaminated dampness | Deep disinfection |
How we treat it
- Safety assessment. We identify the source and the contamination level.
- Containment. We isolate the area so it doesn't spread.
- Extraction. We remove the contaminated water with protection.
- Disinfection. We disinfect surfaces thoroughly.
- Odor control. We remove the drain smell and verify.
«If the water or mold came from sewage or other contaminated water, call a professional.» — EPA
Don't put your family at risk to save a step. Call us: we treat it with the right protocol and leave the area safe.