The nightmare unfolded when sewage overflowed from a downstairs toilet in the family’s home, quickly spreading to engulf the entire ground floor, including the bathroom and kitchen. The torrent of foul water destroyed flooring, skirting boards, and the family’s recently installed kitchen.
Plumbers worked tirelessly to pump out the sewage and clear blockages, but the ordeal continued the following day when sewage again spewed from the toilet, causing further damage. The family, who requested anonymity, is now facing an estimated £30,000 repair bill.
The root cause of the flooding is believed to be non-flushable wet wipes that had clogged the main sewage pipe running under the house. Despite warnings from the local council and visits from door-to-door outreach teams, residents have reportedly continued to flush these wipes, contributing to the sewage buildup.
The water company has since installed a non-return valve to prevent future flooding, but the family remains frustrated by the lack of public education on the dangers of flushing non-biodegradable items. Their insurance company is currently assessing the damage to determine coverage.
The family is appealing to the public to be mindful of what they flush down their toilets, emphasizing the costly and devastating consequences that can arise from improper disposal of non-flushable items.
