What water damage restoration costs

Water damage restoration can cost a few hundred dollars or well into five figures. The final bill depends on what kind of water it was and how far it spread.

Typical costs

HomeAdvisor's cost survey (2025 data, updated June 2026) puts the national average at $3,868. Most jobs fall between $1,383 and $6,369, and the full range runs from $450 to $16,000. These are survey figures, not quotes.

The same survey prices cleanup by the type of water:

• Clean water (burst pipe, roof leak): about $3.50 per square foot.
• Gray water (appliance or toilet overflow): about $5.25.
• Black water (sewage backup, flooding): about $7.50.

It lists burst pipes at $1,000 to $4,000. Mold removal, if it is needed, is listed at $1,100 to $3,400.

What changes the price

• The water type. Contaminated water costs more per square foot to clean up.
• How far it spread. One room costs less than several rooms, or water that reached walls and framing.
• How long it sat. The EPA advises drying wet areas within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold. Waiting can add mold work.
• Rebuilding. Drying and cleanup are one job. New drywall, flooring or cabinets are often priced separately.

Does insurance pay?

Policies differ, so read yours or ask your agent. The Maryland Insurance Administration says that if a pipe suddenly bursts, a homeowners policy will generally cover the damage. It also says homeowners policies generally do not cover flooding, and that slow seepage is treated as a maintenance issue.

Flood damage needs a separate flood policy. FEMA's FloodSmart site says most homeowners insurance does not cover floods. Connecticut's insurance department notes a flood policy normally takes effect 30 days after purchase. Sewer or drain backup is covered only if you added that coverage.

Questions to ask a provider

• Is the estimate in writing, and what does it include?
• Is the water clean, gray or black, and how does that change the price?
• Does the price cover drying equipment and moisture readings?
• Is rebuilding included, or quoted separately?
• Will the provider document the damage for your insurer?
• Does the firm hold IICRC certification? IICRC lists certified firms on its website.

What happens when you call

1. You call the number on this page. A short automated assistant asks two or three questions, such as what's wrong and your ZIP code, so we can find the right provider.
2. We connect your call to an independent water damage provider who serves your area.
3. You talk with the provider directly about the problem, timing and price before any work starts.

Main Street Water Damage doesn't charge you for the referral. The provider sets their own prices and does the work. Calls are recorded for quality and billing.