This is a very common question that does not have an easy answer. Learning about the cost of fixing water damage can help you manage your finances in this situation. The best way to find a water damage restoration cost is to ask for an estimate from a professional restoration company. Even then, the answer is not simple.
The restoration company must go to the property and investigate the damage. Statistically, the average cost for water damage restoration is $2,700. A small, clean water loss may often cost as low as $1,000, while a big water loss (such as a flood) or sewage (like a toilet backup) can be $5,000 or more. These costs are just for making the property dry, safe, clean (mitigation and restoration). These costs don’t include any reconstruction such as replacing drywall, painting, or floor covering.
What does the water damage restoration company need to know before they can give an estimate?
- The category of the loss:
- “Clean water” that contains little or no contamination. It could come from a leaking or broken faucet, pipe, or hose, or possibly rainwater that came through an open window. It is the cleanest and safest water to handle and remove. In a clean water loss, a professional can often save almost everything that was damaged.
- “Grey water” has more contamination and could come from malfunctioning or broken appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. The increased contamination presents some health risks. Many things can be saved in a grey water loss, but carpet pad is an example of something that usually needs to be discarded.
- “Black water” is extremely contaminated and therefore requires the greatest care in handling to avoid illness. Porous materials damaged by contaminated water cannot normally be saved. What we consider “black water” typically comes from sewage drainpipes, or could also come in from outside – over the ground from rivers, streams or the ocean. We have even helped homeowners in Temecula when the main water line broke at the street and flooded inside the house.
- The length of time the water sat affects the restoration costs. A clean water loss or a grey water loss will degrade to a black water loss over time, depending on the temperature. Also, the longer any water damage sits before it is restored, the more likely mold will develop, which may bring additional problems and costs. Mold can begin to grow in 48 hours after materials become wet.
- The size of the affected area – the total square footage of the water-damaged area and surfaces: floors, walls, and ceilings.
- The affected surfaces – costs are related to the different materials damaged: floor coverings, furniture, wall materials, etc. A loss on an upper floor will often impact the floors below.
- The extent of the damage – how much water is involved in the total loss.
- The type and amount of equipment needed to properly dry the property. The type and extent of the damage also determines what tools and equipment are needed to restore your property. Proper drying equipment will reduce the amount of time the building materials are exposed to excessive moisture.
Do all restoration companies charge the same rates?
- If the loss is covered by your insurance company, then professional restoration companies typically use some form of a standard pricing system. Prices throughout Riverside County will be very similar for the same work.
- If the loss is not covered by insurance or if you decide not to file a claim, the restoration company pricing may vary widely.
At PuroClean in Temecula, we look for the right damage restoration solution and value to best fit the situation and your specific needs.
To learn more about water damage insurance, see Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage? and Black Mold – What You Need to Know. For professional water damage restoration or mold remediation, contact your local PuroClean office or call 951-651-0202.
