The Price of Water Damage

It’s safe to say nobody wants to have to deal with water damage, but unfortunately, it is sometimes inevitable. This is why it is important to learn about the necessary steps to take, not only to get present water damage issues resolved, but to prevent future damages from occurring as well.

But . . . where do you start?

The First Steps You Should Take When Evaluating the Price of Water Damage

If you have water damage in your home, the first thing you’ll want to do is get an estimate for the restoration expenses. An estimate from a professional restoration company is the best way to obtain a water damage restoration cost. They can give you an accurate estimate for the work required. However, remember that an estimate isn’t the final, approximate cost. The number can change depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repairs that may be necessary. The restoration company must go to the property to assess the damage to provide an estimate.

The very first call to action when facing water damage is reaching out to a local restoration expert to get an estimate. They will ask about the cause of the water damage, areas affected, how long the water was running for, if it has been shut off, and what kind of water it is (i.e. clean, gray, or black water which we will discuss here next). They will also usually ask you if you are planning to file an insurance claim, that way they can anticipate working directly with your insurance company.

Now, about the different kinds of water.

The type of water will play a role in determining the cost of your estimate.

1. Clean water often considered water that carries little to no traces of contamination, as long as it has not been sitting for longer than a 12-hour period. Hose and tap water are excellent examples of this. The average price range per square foot for this restoration service is between $3 to $4.
2. Gray water is what clean water can turn to if left standing for over 12 hours. That is because bacteria and contaminants accumulate after time. Gray water can also come from broken appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines. Because this type of water carries contamination, the cost for restoration services is greater, ranging from $4 to $6.50 per square feet.
3. Black water is the highest level of contaminated water and therefore requires the most caution because it poses the greatest health risks. Sewer water and water intrusion from the outside such as from floods and oceanwater are good examples of this, as these sources contain harmful contaminants. The average price ranger per square food for this restoration service is between $7 to $7.50. It’s important to bear in mind that gray water can turn into black water if left standing for a period of time. This is one of many reasons as to why it is important to get water damage resolved as quickly as possible.  

According to HomeAdvisor, the national average cost for water damage restoration is $3,291. The typical range for this type of work is between $1,240 and $5,342. These prices are just for drying and restoring the property to its pre-loss condition (mitigation and restoration). These costs don’t include any reconstruction, such as painting, repairing water-damaged drywall, or floor covering. 

In some cases, insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with water damage restoration. However, checking with your insurance company before making any claims is always recommended. 

What Water Damage Restoration Companies Need to Know Before Giving an Estimate

Before composing an estimate, restoration companies need to know certain pieces of information, such as the type of water, the source of the water damage, how long the water was running (if applicable), and if there is standing water.

Standing Water

Standing water affects the water damage restoration costs. Clean and grey water loss will degrade to black water loss over time, depending on the temperature. Additionally, the longer a water loss is left unattended, the likelier mold growth can develop, adding further complications and expenses. Mold can begin to grow in 48 hours after materials become wet. The growth of mold is also expedited by humidity. This is why it is important to get equipment set up as quickly as possible; the sooner the restoration company can get to your property to begin the drying out and restoration process, the less damage you’ll have.

The Size and Surface of the Affected Area

The total square footage of the water-damaged area can be a major factor when determining your estimate. A loss on an upper floor can often impact the floors below. The surface of the affected area pertains to damaged materials like floor coverings, furniture, walls, and personal belongings. 

The Extent of the Damage

Generally, the more water involved, the more expensive the repair. A severe water damage restoration project will require extensive work, raising costs. 

The Type of Equipment Needed

This refers to the equipment the water damage restoration company needs to use during the drying process. The type and extent of damage also determine what tools and equipment are required to restore your property. Remember that a typical drying period can range from five days, depending on the damage and method applied. 

Do All Restoration Companies Charge the Same Rates?

There are two things to remember: (1) If your insurance company covers the loss, the water damage restoration companies use a standard pricing system, and prices will be very similar for the same amount of work. (2) If the loss is not covered by insurance or you decide not to file a claim, the restoration company may adjust the pricing to fit the situation and your specific needs best. 

What Are the Consequences of Not Repairing Water Damage?

The effects of neglecting water damage restoration can vary depending on the size of the property and the impacted areas. It is a fact that the longer the water loss is not dealt with, the greater the negative impact will be felt. Mold growth can unleash serious health issues. Musty odors, stains, possible electrical malfunctions, and other issues can arise from unchecked water damage.  Furthermore, the water can create structural damage to the home and its foundation, making the property unsafe. In any case, you should mitigate water damage as soon as possible to prevent the situation from worsening and becoming more expensive. If you notice even the smallest amount of water damage in your home, it’s essential to respond immediately to avoid further damage.

Water damage can be a costly problem to fix. Depending on the severity of the damage, it can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re experiencing water damage in your home, taking action as soon as possible is vital in order to minimize and prevent further problems. Contact a professional restoration company, such as PuroClean, for assistance, and be sure to document everything so you can submit an insurance claim, if necessary.

Call PuroClean Today for Your Water Damage Restoration Needs in South Reno, Nevada

PuroClean’s property restoration experts are available 24/7 to help with fire damage, water damage restoration, mold remediation, biohazard cleanups, and more. As the “Paramedics of Property Damage®,” we are the first responders of property restoration, providing emergency service when you truly need it. We assist both residential and commercial clients. Please call us at (775) 446-4646.