How much does water damage restoration cost?

The total cost for water removal, drying and restoration will vary depending on the size of the affected area, if any mold remediation must be done and the average cost of labor in your area. Continue reading to find out how much it will cost to clean up the water and repair the damage. And, find out how to contact a local professional for a more accurate cost estimate.

Water damage restoration and cleanup prices vary depending on the square foot. According to National Flood Services, the price per square foot is broken down as follows:

• Category 1 clean water: $3.75/sq. ft.
• Category 2 gray water: $4.50/ sq. ft.
• Category 3 black water: $7/sq. ft. 

Based on these averages, here’s how much you can expect to pay depending on the square footage:

The most common water damage restoration tasks include replacing drywall — on the walls and ceilings — as well as intensive carpet cleaning.

For instance, replacing sheetrock costs between $5 and $8 per square foot and installing new drywall is about $1.50 per square foot. Repairing a ceiling, which can be stained, soggy and sagging, usually costs between $500 and $1,000.

Most carpet cleaning pros can extract water from a carpet, which ranges from $150 to $500 per room, and then clean it thoroughly, which generally costs less than $1 per square foot.

Here are more resources to help you estimate how much it would cost to replace certain areas in your home after water damage:

• Basement remodel cost
• Drywall replacement cost
• Floor replacement cost
• Pipe replacement cost
• Roof replacement cost

Here are the most common factors that impact water damage restoration costs.

Type of water

Water damage can be caused by several things, but one way to estimate your overall cost is by identifying where the water leak came from. Three types of water can cause damage, each coming with its own cleanup prices.

• Clean water comes from leaky pipes, rain or general condensation. This water is safer and cheaper to clean up. It rarely contains any bacteria, so the cleanup is less expensive. 
• Gray water is slightly dirty water that can come from dishwashers, washing machines or toilets. This water could have contaminants, so it requires more safety measures, making the cleanup typically cost more.
• Black is the most expensive to clean up. This is caused if a sewer is backed up or if there’s major flooding from outside sources such as rivers or lakes. Black water can contain many bacteria and other harmful agents that a professional water removal service will need to take the proper safety precautions to disinfect and clean up correctly.

Extent of damage

The extent of the damage will also be a factor in the cost of your restoration work. If the water has damaged drywall, ceilings, baseboards or flooring, those most likely will need to be removed and rebuilt. 

Mold remediation cost

If there’s any mold growing due to moisture, that will need to be cleaned by a professional mold removal company. 

Painting, replacing fixtures & other repairs

Other things such as needing to repaint or replace fixtures need to also be factored into the total cost.

Square footage

The last factor to consider is the size of the affected area that has been damaged. The larger the area is, the more time-consuming the drying process will be. Using the average cost per square foot in your area, you can estimate how much the water damage repair work will cost.

From minor leaks to major flooding, a variety of sources can lead to water damage in your home. 

Clean water sources: Rain, bathtubs or sinks overflowing, melting snow or ice or leaking water pipes. 

Gray water sources: Leaking appliances such as washing machines or dishwashers, toilets, or sump pump failures. 

Black water sources: Contaminated water sources coming into your home, such as from a sewer backup or flood water from rivers and streams.

One of the first dangers of water damage is the water itself. Clean water, if left for an extended time, can develop contaminants that could be harmful to humans. Both gray and black water have levels of bacteria and other organic materials that could be hazardous. 

Even a small leak can turn into a major problem if left too long. Ceilings and sheetrock are susceptible to water damage and will need to be replaced if damaged. Extensive damage can also occur deeper in the subfloor or rafters, causing structural damage — which could be an even more costly job to repair. 

Water that’s not cleaned up could lead to mold growth. Mold can be toxic and should be fully removed and cleaned by a mold remediation company as soon as possible.

There are several items to check in and around your home to ensure your property is protected from water damage. While you can’t prevent a major flood from happening, there are several cost-effective measures you can take to lower the chance of a leaky pipe bursting or rainwater getting into your home. 

Below are a few tips for keeping your home waterproof, according to the Insurance Information Institute:

• Check that all external water drains are flowing away from your house.
• To prevent a basement flood, apply water sealant to any cracks in the walls or floors.
• Reseal any showers or tubs that may have old caulking.
• Regularly check water hoses connected to your appliances. 
• Check heating and plumbing pipes for any leaks or cracks.
• Clean out gutters and make sure downspouts are directed away from your house.
• Caulk around windows and doors.
• Check your attic for any visible signs of leaks. 
• Check your roof for any damaged shingles.
• Know where the main water shut-off is for your home in case of a burst pipe.

You should also look into completing the following home projects — especially if you live in an area that’s prone to heavy rains or floods:

• Waterproof your basement
• Install a sump pump
• Get a roof inspection
• Get your plumbing inspected

To help you maintain your home and prevent severe water damage, hire a team of professionals who can inspect different areas in your home, clean those areas and make any necessary repairs.

Look up local water damage repair services on Thumbtack, and review their profiles for credentials and client testimonials. Compare a few different companies in your area and identify a few that seem to fit your needs.

Reach out to them and ask for cost estimates. Explain what damage you can visibly see and where it came from. Also, send them pictures so they can give you a more accurate price quote.

Water damage restoration is an important job that requires a professional to follow specific guidelines and work safely. Ask water damage restoration companies near you if they have Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC). 

Water damage can be devastating to your home and property. Having a professional come in and assess the damage is key to restoring your home to its original state. Contact a water damage restoration specialist in your area to get the job done right.