Water Damage Restoration Cost Estimator

Get a localized price range based on 2025 industry standards. Stop guessing and start negotiating with confidence.

sq ft



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Estimated Cost Range

$1,800-$2,340

Based on 2026 Industry Standards

Local Adjustment Included Material + Labor
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*Estimates vary by location and severity. Does not include reconstruction (drywall/paint) unless specified.

Common Questions About Water Damage Pricing

What is the average water damage restoration cost per square foot in 2026?

The cost varies significantly by water type. For Clean Water (rain, burst pipes), costs average $6.00 to $8.00 per sq. ft. For Black Water (sewage, flood), costs jump to $13.00 to $15.00+ per sq. ft. due to the hazardous materials (Hazmat) equipment required.

Does this estimate include the cost to repair water-damaged drywall and ceilings?

No. This estimate covers Mitigation only (water extraction, drying, dehumidification, and demolition). The Reconstruction phase (hanging new drywall, painting, reinstalling cabinets) is a separate invoice and usually costs an additional 1.5x to 2x the mitigation price.

Why is "Emergency Water Extraction" so expensive?

If you have standing water (puddles over 1 inch deep), contractors must use truck-mounted pumps to physically remove the water before drying can begin. This typically incurs a flat "Emergency Extraction Fee" ($500–$1,500) on top of the square-footage rate to cover the vehicle and technician dispatch.

What is the difference between Black Water vs. Clean Water cleanup costs?

Clean Water (Category 1) poses no health threat and is the cheapest to dry. Black Water (Category 3) contains pathogens (sewage, river water) and requires full PPE suits, containment barriers, and aggressive chemical treatments, often doubling the price compared to clean water jobs.

Will my homeowners insurance cover these restoration costs?

Most policies cover "sudden and accidental" damage (like a burst pipe) but exclude "gradual" damage or "rising floodwaters." To see if filing a claim makes financial sense for your specific situation, use our Should I File a Claim? Calculator.

How much does hardwood floor water damage restoration cost?

Hardwood floors are more expensive to save than carpet because they require specialized "injectidry" mats to draw moisture out of of the wood grain. Expect to pay a 20-30% premium on the estimate if you are trying to salvage hardwood floors rather than remove them.

What factors influence water damage repair costs the most?

The three biggest cost drivers are:
  • Water Category: Is it toxic sewage?
  • Class of Destruction: Did the water wick up the walls or just sit on the floor?
  • Access: Is it an after-hours emergency or a crawlspace that is hard to reach?