Why Toilets Overflow and What to Do When It Turns Into a Sewer Emergency

Posted on by msi-admin

Few calls are more stressful than the one we received from a homeowner in West Chester, PA, near West Chester University — home of the Rams. She was panicked because water was pouring out of her toilet, flooding the bathroom, soaking the hallway, and then breaking through the ceiling into the first-floor dining room below.

By the time our team arrived, contaminated water had affected multiple levels of the home, including hardwood flooring, ceilings and even into the unfinished basement. This wasn’t a simple plumbing issue, it was a sewer backup that required professional handling from start to finish. Situations like this happen more often than homeowners realize, especially in older neighborhoods, and understanding why toilets overflow, and what to do next, can make a major difference in limiting damage and health risks.

Why Toilets Overflow in the First Place

Toilets don’t overflow randomly. In nearly every case, there’s a blockage or failure somewhere in the system.

Common causes of toilet overflows include:

  • Clogged sewer lines (main line or branch line backups)
  • Flushing items that don’t break down properly
  • Tree root intrusion into underground sewer pipes
  • Older plumbing systems with reduced pipe diameter
  • Partial blockages that worsen over time

In this West Chester home, the toilet overflowed because the sewer line was clogged, causing wastewater to back up through the lowest exit point — the toilet.

Why Sewer Backups Are So Dangerous

When a toilet overflows due to a sewer issue, the water involved is classified as Category 3 water — the most hazardous type of water damage.

Sewage-contaminated water can contain:

  • Bacteria and viruses
  • Pathogens harmful to humans and pets
  • Contaminants that soak into porous materials

This is why homeowners should never attempt to clean sewer water themselves. Even brief contact can pose serious health risks, and improper cleanup can allow contamination to remain hidden inside walls, flooring, and ceilings.

What to Do Immediately When a Toilet Overflows

If sewage is coming out of a toilet, time matters, but safety comes first.

The right steps to take:

  1. Stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately
    Running water can worsen the backup.
  2. Contact a licensed plumber to identify and clear the blockage.
  3. Avoid contact with the water — do not attempt cleanup.
  4. Call a professional water damage company experienced with sewer backups and emergency water damage.

In this case, once the homeowner’s plumber cleared the sewer line, our team stepped in to handle the damage safely and correctly.

What Professional Sewer Cleanup Actually Involves

Sewer damage cleanup is far more than water removal.

At this West Chester home, our work included:

  • Water extraction from affected rooms and ceilings
  • Removal of contaminated materials, including portions of ceiling, walls and flooring
  • Disinfection and sanitation of all affected areas
  • Structural drying to ensure moisture didn’t remain trapped
  • Steps taken to prevent future mold growth
  • Assistance with insurance claim documentation

Without proper removal, disinfection, and drying, sewer damage can lead to long-term health issues and structural problems.

Why Sewer Damage Often Spreads to Other Floors

Many homeowners are surprised when a toilet overflow damages areas far from the bathroom.

When sewage backs up:

  • Water can travel through floor systems
  • Ceiling and wall cavities can trap moisture
  • Damage may not be visible right away

In this situation, wastewater from the second floor traveled down into the first floor and basement areas, damaging ceilings and hardwood floors along the way.

Why Sewer Overflows Are Never “Just a Plumbing Issue”

Toilet overflows caused by sewer backups are serious events that require immediate, professional attention. What starts as a plumbing problem quickly becomes a health and safety issue, especially when contaminated water spreads through multiple levels of a home.

If you experience a sewer-related toilet overflow, it’s important to act quickly, protect yourself, and bring in qualified professionals who understand both the cleanup and the long-term risks. Emergency water damage involving sewage should always be handled properly the first time to avoid bigger problems later. And at MSI we’ve been handling emergency water damage restoration jobs in Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Bucks County, Camden County New Jersey and Delaware since 1998, so you can trust our team will get it done right the first time.

A Flooded Basement in Doylestown, PA: A Real Emergency Response

Posted on by Joseph Fiorilli

Homeowners are often told that help is only a phone call away when water damage strikes. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case.

Recently, a homeowner in Doylestown, PA experienced a flooded basement after a supply line burst. What followed is a situation we see far too often — multiple companies advertising “emergency water damage restoration,” but no one actually provides the service they claim.

When Emergency Services Aren’t Actually Emergency

As water continued to spread through the basement, the homeowner began calling local companies that claimed to offer emergency water damage services. Three different companies told her they could not come out that day, or that it would be many hours before anyone could respond.

By that point, frustration had set in. Water damage is stressful enough on its own, and being told repeatedly that help isn’t available only makes the situation worse. When she finally contacted our team, we responded immediately. Despite a 45-minute drive, we arrived within an hour and a half and began addressing the situation right away.

Immediate Action to Stop Further Damage

Upon arrival, our priority was to stabilize the loss. We extracted the standing water, removed damaged materials, and began proper structural drying of the basement. Quick response matters in water damage situations. The longer moisture remains in building materials, the greater the risk of secondary damage, including mold growth and structural deterioration.

Hidden Mold That Was Never Disclosed

As drying progressed, we discovered hidden mold growth that had not been disclosed during the home’s sale. The homeowner had mentioned that she often felt unwell when spending time in the basement, and the presence of mold helped explain those symptoms.

This is not uncommon in basements that have experienced past moisture issues that were never properly addressed. Mold is frequently hidden behind finished walls, flooring, or insulation and may not be visible or noticeable without a thorough evaluation.

Electrical Hazards That Could Have Become a Fire Risk

In addition to the mold, we identified poor electrical lines and unsafe connections in the basement. These conditions posed a potential fire hazard, especially in an area that had just been exposed to water. Water damage often reveals problems unrelated to the original loss. Addressing these issues early can prevent much more serious problems down the road.

Insurance Coverage the Homeowner Didn’t Know She Had

Another major source of stress for the homeowner was insurance. She had no idea that the damage from the burst supply line could be covered under her policy. We explained the process, helped her document the loss properly, and assisted her in filing the claim. The claim was approved, and she was ultimately paid for both the remediation work and the reconstruction. Understanding what is and isn’t covered can make a significant difference in how a homeowner experiences a loss.

From Frustration to Resolution

What began as an extremely frustrating situation — with no companies able to respond — turned into a manageable experience once the right team became involved. Water damage is always stressful, but having someone take responsibility for the process, explain each step, and help carry the loss through to a paid-out claim can make a major difference for homeowners.

This Doylestown case is a good reminder that not all “emergency services” are actually available when emergencies happen, and that fast response, thorough evaluation, and proper documentation matter just as much as the cleanup itself.

Why Draining Your Hot Water Tank Matters – Avoid Costly Water Damage

Posted on by msi-admin

Most homeowners never think about their water heater until there’s a puddle forming underneath it. Unfortunately, by the time a leak appears, the damage is already done.

Water heater failures are one of the most common sources of residential flooding — often releasing dozens of gallons of water in just minutes. The good news? A little maintenance goes a long way toward preventing a costly water damage disaster.

The Hidden Risk Inside Your Tank

Every time your water heater runs, minerals and sediment from the water supply settle at the bottom of the tank. Over time, that buildup hardens into a thick layer that traps heat, causes the tank to overheat, and leads to cracking or corrosion.

As pressure builds, fittings can fail or the tank itself can rupture — often when no one’s home to notice. That’s why regular maintenance is critical not just for energy efficiency but for preventing a flood that could ruin floors, drywall, and insulation.

How (and When) to Drain Your Water Heater

Experts recommend draining and flushing your water heater once per year. Here’s how to do it safely:

  1. Turn off power to the heater (electric or gas).
  2. Connect a garden hose to the drain valve near the bottom of the tank.
  3. Run the other end of the hose to a floor drain or outdoors.
  4. Open a hot water tap somewhere in the house to relieve pressure.
  5. Open the drain valve and let the tank empty completely.
  6. Once drained, briefly turn on the cold water supply to flush remaining sediment.
  7. Close the valve, disconnect the hose, and restore power.

If you notice excessive rust, milky water, or sediment that doesn’t clear, it may be a sign the heater is nearing the end of its life.

Signs Your Water Heater Might Be Failing

A water heater rarely fails without warning. Be alert for:

  • Rusty or discolored hot water
  • A metallic taste in tap water
  • Rumbling or popping noises from the tank
  • Water pooling underneath the unit
  • Hot water that fluctuates in temperature

Ignoring these signs could lead to a full rupture, especially if your tank is more than 8–10 years old.

When a Leak Happens

Even a small leak can quickly spread beneath floors, into drywall, and across adjacent rooms. Once that happens, moisture becomes trapped, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth and hidden structural damage.

MSI provides 24/7 emergency water damage restoration, complete with moisture mapping, structural drying, and insurance documentation. We help homeowners return their property to pre-loss condition as quickly and safely as possible.

The Bottom Line

Routine maintenance may not be exciting, but it’s one of the easiest ways to prevent major water damage. Take 30 minutes once a year to drain and inspect your water heater — it could save you thousands in repairs. And if the unexpected does happen, MSI is ready to respond with certified technicians, detailed reporting, and honest communication every step of the way.

Why Storm Flooding Can Be More Dangerous Than Most People Think

Posted on by msi-admin

When a major storm hits, most homeowners worry about rain leaking in through the roof or flooding the basement. But one of the most dangerous—and overlooked—risks during a storm is a sewage backup.

And the worst part? Many people don’t realize that not all water damage is equal.

What Is Category 3 Water?

In the restoration industry, all water losses are classified into categories based on contamination:

  • Category 1: Clean water (e.g., supply line break)
  • Category 2: Gray water (e.g., washing machine or dishwasher overflow)
  • Category 3: Black water — water that contains sewage, waste, or other dangerous contaminants

Stormwater that floods a basement, overflows from a sump pump, or backs up from a toilet or floor drain is almost always Category 3. That means it’s dangerous, requires special cleanup procedures, and can’t just be dried out and forgotten.

Why Storms Trigger Sewage Backups

During a nor’easter or other major rain event, local sewer systems can get overwhelmed—especially in older towns and cities like those in our region. Water has nowhere to go, so it starts backing up into the lowest points it can find.

Common places that get hit:

  • Basement drains
  • Toilets on lower levels
  • Shower pans and bathtubs
  • Sump pump pits
  • Crawlspaces

If the water that enters your home has odor, discoloration, or came up through a drain, it’s likely contaminated and dangerous to touch without protection.

The Risks of Improper Cleanup

Too often, property owners or general contractors treat Category 3 water like it’s just dirty rainwater. But here’s the reality:

  • Sewage carries bacteria, viruses, and parasites
  • Materials like drywall, carpet, and insulation can’t be sanitized once saturated
  • Improper cleanup can cause long-term odor, structural damage, and mold
  • Insurance can deny claims if it’s not handled according to proper protocols

If you see a cleanup crew show up with no protective gear and no containment barriers, it’s a red flag. They’re not doing it safely—or correctly.

How MSI Handles Category 3 Losses

We take black water cleanup seriously. Our certified team follows strict IICRC standards for sewage and stormwater cleanup:

  • Full containment of affected areas
  • Technicians in full PPE (suits, gloves, respirators)
  • Safe removal of contaminated materials
  • HEPA air filtration and odor control
  • EPA-registered disinfectants applied throughout
  • Moisture monitoring and follow-up clearance documentation

We also work directly with your insurance company to document every step of the process—from damage photos and readings to sanitization reports.

Final Thoughts

If you experience flooding during this weekend’s storm—especially water coming up from drains, toilets, or through walls and floors—do not assume it’s just water.

Category 3 losses require a professional response. Improper handling can lead to major health issues, long-term contamination, and denied insurance claims.

Call MSI 24/7 at 877-712-1600 for emergency sewage cleanup and stormwater response. We’ve been handling complex losses since 1998—and we’ll make sure it’s done right the first time.

Professional Drying vs. DIY: How to Truly Dry Out Your Home and Prevent Mold

Posted on by msi-admin

When water damage strikes — whether from a burst pipe, leaking appliance, or heavy rain — many homeowners reach for household fans and a store-bought dehumidifier, hoping that will solve the problem. While it may seem like a quick fix, these tools simply aren’t powerful enough to stop the hidden dangers that come with water damage. Without the right equipment and techniques, moisture lingers in your home’s structure, creating the perfect conditions for mold growth and costly repairs.

Why Household Equipment Falls Short

  • Fans: A box fan or ceiling fan circulates air, but it doesn’t create the high-velocity airflow needed to pull moisture out of walls, flooring, and other building materials.
  • Store-bought dehumidifiers: These units are designed for comfort in a bedroom or basement, not for drying a water-damaged structure. They pull out only a fraction of the moisture required, and can take weeks to have any impact. Meanwhile, mold has time to spread.

What Professional Equipment Does Differently

  • Commercial air movers: These machines blast air at floor level and across surfaces, forcing moisture out of wood, drywall, and carpeting.
  • Industrial dehumidifiers: Unlike small home units, professional dehumidifiers extract dozens — even hundreds — of pints of water per day, rapidly lowering humidity to safe levels.
  • Moisture meters and thermal imaging: Hidden dampness inside wall cavities or under flooring can’t be seen with the naked eye. Professional tools detect and verify that everything is truly dry.

Why Speed Matters: Stopping Mold Before It Starts

Time is critical after water damage. Mold can begin growing in as little as 24 to 48 hours if moisture is left unchecked. Even if a surface feels dry, deep inside the materials, moisture may still be present. Professional drying equipment ensures the structure is dried quickly and completely, cutting off mold before it has a chance to take hold.

Protecting Your Home and Health

Using household equipment may make the surface look better temporarily, but it doesn’t address the bigger issue. Without full structural drying, homeowners often face mold infestations, warped building materials, and persistent odors just weeks later. Professional equipment prevents these problems, saving money, time, and stress in the long run.

The MSI Difference

At MSI, we use advanced drying equipment and IICRC-certified techniques to restore homes the right way. Every job is documented with moisture readings to prove that your property is safe, dry, and mold-free. Choosing professional help isn’t just about convenience — it’s about protecting your home and your health.

Don’t risk mold and long-term damage by relying on household fans. Call MSI today at 215-339-1769 for fast, professional water damage restoration.

When Sellers Hide Water & Mold Damage: A Costly Court Case in Radnor PA

Posted on by msi-admin

I want to discuss a recent court case I was involved in that shows just how costly it can be when sellers fail to disclose water and mold damage.

This case took place in Radnor, PA, and it centered on a home that was listed for $1.2 million but ended up selling for $1.36 million. The sellers walked away with more than they were asking for, but instead of being upfront, they hid major problems that would eventually cost them dearly.

What the Buyers Didn’t See

From the very beginning, the buyers were rushed through walk-throughs. Both realtors created short, pressured windows that left little time to really evaluate the property. Behind the quick tours were years of water intrusion problems:

  • A leaking basement.
  • Roof failures that damaged three bedrooms.
  • Wall issues from poorly installed stucco and windows.

These weren’t surprises to the sellers. In fact, their own old social media posts—later uncovered by the buyers’ attorney—showed them talking about water problems in the basement.

The Lawsuit

After closing, the buyers realized the scope of the damage. They had used everything they had to purchase the property and couldn’t afford the massive repair costs. Their attorney filed a lawsuit seeking rescission—essentially asking the court to unwind the deal because the house had been misrepresented.

I testified in this case alongside other expert witnesses. We all confirmed the same thing: the damage wasn’t new and didn’t suddenly appear. It was long-term, ongoing, and deliberately covered up.

It wasn’t just the sellers who paid the price. The realtors were also sued and ultimately settled before the trial. They were found to be complicit in rushing the buyers through and not allowing proper inspection windows, and together they lost about $50,000.

The Outcome

Faced with overwhelming evidence, the sellers agreed to settle. They were forced to pay $230,000 plus more than $100,000 in legal fees. What looked like a profitable sale quickly turned into a financial disaster—all because of dishonesty.

The Lesson

The moral is simple: when selling a home, disclosure matters. Water damage and mold don’t just disappear, and covering them up is never worth the risk. Buyers may still move forward if issues are disclosed properly, but hiding them almost always ends in lawsuits and financial loss.

And for realtors, this case is a reminder that your actions matter too. Pushing buyers through rushed walkthroughs or glossing over concerns doesn’t just put your clients at risk—it can put you in the courtroom as well.

From my perspective, having been directly involved in this case, it’s clear that honesty and transparency protects everyone in the long run.

After the Flames: Why Boarding Up Your Home is Critical After a Fire

Posted on by msi-admin

When a fire breaks out, the fire department’s priority is saving lives and stopping the flames. To do that, they often have to break windows, force open doors, or cut through the roof. While those actions are necessary in the moment, they leave your home exposed once the fire trucks leave.

That’s where emergency board-up services come in. Securing the property after a fire isn’t just about safety — it’s about protecting your home from further damage and making sure your insurance claim isn’t jeopardized.

Why Emergency Board-Up is Necessary

After a fire, your home is vulnerable. Gaping windows, broken doors, and damaged roofing allow:

  • Rain and snow to enter, leading to water and mold damage.
  • Thieves or vandals to gain easy access.
  • Animals and pests to make their way inside.

Worse, if someone enters your unsecured property and gets hurt, you could be held liable.

Common Openings After Fire Department Response

Even a small fire can leave a home wide open. It’s common to see:

  • Shattered windows from firefighting efforts.
  • Holes cut in the roof for ventilation.
  • Garage doors forced open or left inoperable.
  • Entry doors broken during rescue operations.

Every one of these openings is an invitation for more damage if left unattended.

The Risks of Leaving a Fire-Damaged Home Unsecured

  • Secondary water damage when rain or snow gets inside.
  • Structural deterioration as moisture weakens materials.
  • Theft of valuables, tools, or copper piping.
  • Legal and insurance issues if the property isn’t properly protected.

Insurance companies expect homeowners to take steps to mitigate further damage. Failing to secure your home can sometimes give them reason to reduce or deny coverage.

What Proper Board-Up Includes

Professional fire damage contractors like MSI move fast to:

  • Secure all windows, doors, and roof openings with plywood and heavy-duty tarps.
  • Install temporary fencing or barriers if necessary.
  • Change or secure locks to restrict access.
  • Provide documentation and photos for your insurance adjuster.

This isn’t a quick DIY project — it requires the right equipment and training to keep both you and the property safe.

Why Call MSI for Emergency Board-Up

Boarding up a fire-damaged home is about more than hammering in plywood. At MSI, we:

  • Respond 24/7 to secure properties the same day.
  • Follow IICRC safety standards for handling fire-damaged structures.
  • Provide the paperwork your insurance company expects.
  • Move seamlessly from board-up to fire and smoke cleanup, so you’re not juggling multiple contractors.

Protect Your Home Immediately

If you’ve just experienced a fire, don’t let your home sit exposed. A fast board-up is the first step toward recovery — and it prevents the situation from getting worse.

MSI is available 24/7 for emergency fire board-up and cleanup services. Call us today at 215-339-1769 to secure your property and start the restoration process.

Why Insurance Companies Deny Water Loss Claims—and How to Protect Yourself

Posted on by msi-admin

When water damage strikes, many homeowners assume their insurance policy will cover the loss. Unfortunately, that isn’t always the case. Insurance companies frequently deny water damage claims, often leaving families with unexpected repair bills and stressful disputes. Understanding why these denials happen can help you avoid pitfalls and strengthen your position if you ever need to file a claim.

Common Reasons Insurance Denies Water Damage Claims

1. “Long-Term” or “Gradual” Leaks
Most standard homeowners’ policies only cover sudden and accidental water damage. If an adjuster determines the loss was caused by a slow leak—such as a dripping pipe behind a wall over months or years—they may call it a “maintenance issue” and deny coverage.

2. Lack of Documentation
If you can’t prove when the damage happened or how it occurred, insurers may claim there’s not enough evidence to tie it to a covered event. Photos, videos, and professional inspection reports are critical in supporting your claim.

3. Excluded Sources of Water
Not all types of water damage are treated equally. For example, many policies exclude flood damage, water backing up through drains, or sewer/septic overflows unless you purchased separate coverage.

4. Mold Resulting from Water Damage
Even when water damage itself is covered, mold growth caused by that damage is often excluded—or capped at very low limits. This leaves homeowners responsible for expensive remediation. Insurance companies frequently argue that “mold takes a long time to grow,” labeling it as long-term damage. In reality, mold can begin germinating in as little as 24 to 48 hours after water intrusion, making this a common but misleading excuse for denial.

How to Protect Yourself Before and After a Loss

  • Know Your Policy: Take the time to read your coverage details, especially exclusions related to water damage, mold, sewer backups, and floods.
  • Act Quickly: The longer you wait to report or address water damage, the more likely your insurer will call it “long-term.” Contact a restoration professional immediately.
  • Document Everything: Photograph the damage from multiple angles, keep damaged materials, and request a professional inspection. Independent reports can make all the difference in disputes.
  • Request Clarification in Writing: If your claim is denied, ask for the specific policy language being used against you. This can give you leverage if you need to appeal.
  • Use Your Right to Choose a Contractor: Insurance companies may recommend preferred vendors, but you are legally allowed to hire the restoration company of your choice. Choosing a qualified, experienced team ensures the work is done right—not rushed to save the insurer money.

Final Thoughts

Water damage is stressful enough without fighting your insurance company. By understanding the most common reasons for claim denials and taking proactive steps to document and protect your property, you can strengthen your case and improve your chances of a successful payout.

If you’ve experienced water damage and want expert help not just with cleanup, but also with the documentation insurers demand, MSI is here to guide you through every step.

Can Insurance Tell You Who to Hire? The Truth You Need To Know

Posted on by msi-admin

When property damage strikes, homeowners often feel pressured to follow the insurance company’s recommendations. It’s common to hear: “We’ll send out our preferred contractor.” But here’s the truth — your insurance company cannot force you to use their contractor.

Why Insurance Companies Push “Preferred Vendors”

Insurance companies often have deals with certain contractors. These partnerships are designed to keep costs low for the insurer, not necessarily to ensure the best restoration for your home. While some preferred vendors do quality work, others may cut corners to keep costs down, leaving you with hidden damage that causes bigger problems later.

You Have the Right to Choose

No matter what the insurance adjuster says, you are free to hire the restoration company you trust. In Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware, consumer protection laws support your right to choose. Your insurance policy covers the work based on the damage, not the contractor.

Risks of Letting Insurance Dictate

Relying only on the insurance company’s pick can lead to:

  • Incomplete drying after water damage, which can trigger mold growth weeks later.
  • Surface-only soot cleaning, leaving behind harmful residues and odors.
  • Mishandled biohazard or hoarding cleanups, creating liability risks for the property owner.

How to Choose the Right Restoration Company

When damage happens, focus on choosing a company that puts your home first:

  • Look for certifications such as IICRC.
  • Choose experienced professionals who regularly handle insurance claims.
  • Ask for transparency in estimates, photos, and reports.

The Bottom Line

Your home is your responsibility — not your insurance company’s property. Don’t let them steer you toward contractors who might not serve your best interest. You have the right to decide who restores your home.

At MSI, we’ve been helping homeowners navigate claims and restore their properties since 1998. If disaster strikes, call us first — we’ll work with your insurance, but we’ll always work for you.

From Denied Claim to Full Coverage — Media, PA Water Loss

Posted on by msi-admin

What seemed like a small water damage issue on the first floor of a single-family home in Media, PA turned out to be a multi-floor problem that had been quietly causing damage for some time. This project revealed the hidden extent of water damage — and how having an experienced restoration company can make all the difference when dealing with insurance claims.

The First Call

When the homeowner first contacted us, they believed the water damage was limited to their first floor. Upon inspection, our team found additional damage extending upward to the second floor and downward into the finished basement. With no visible source in sight, we began carefully opening walls to trace the water’s path.

Finding the Culprit

The break was eventually traced to a cracked stack pipe in the second-floor wall. The homeowner had already filed an insurance claim, but it had been denied because the insurer labeled it a “long-term leak” — a common reason for claim rejections, especially when mold is involved.

However, our inspection told a different story.

Proving the Case

We documented how the crack in the pipe was small enough to release only minimal amounts of water at a time. The insulation and double-layered drywall/plaster acted like a sponge, absorbing the water before any signs appeared on the surface. By the time damage became visible, the underlying problem had been active for some time — but not because it was ignored.

Once the wall was opened, a plumber could repair the pipe, and with our findings, the insurance company reversed its decision and covered the claim.

Understanding Category 3 Water

This was a Category 3 water loss — the most hazardous classification:

  • Category 1: Clean water from a sanitary source.
  • Category 2: “Gray” water with some contamination.
  • Category 3: “Black” water containing sewage, bacteria, and dangerous pathogens.

Because the cracked stack pipe was part of the home’s waste system, any escaping water posed serious health risks. Immediate, professional remediation was essential to remove contaminated materials, sanitize the area, and prevent mold growth.

Why Stack Pipes Crack

Stack pipes — the vertical plumbing pipes that carry waste and water from upper floors — can crack for several reasons:

  • Material fatigue in older cast iron or PVC systems.
  • Shifting or settling of the building.
  • Temperature fluctuations causing expansion and contraction.
  • Corrosion or rust over time.

Even a small crack can cause major hidden damage, as this case clearly showed.

The MSI Difference

Our role went far beyond cleanup. We:

  • Discovered the hidden extent of the damage.
  • Removed contaminated materials from all affected floors.
  • Performed mold remediation to IICRC standards.
  • Coordinated with the plumber for quick repairs.
  • Provided the documentation needed to reverse a denied insurance claim.

When you’re facing water damage — especially from a hidden source — you need a restoration company that knows how to uncover the problem, clean it up properly, and help you get it covered.

Have water or mold damage you can’t figure out? Call MSI at 877-712-1600. We’ll find the source, stop the damage, and help restore your home safely.