Most water damage restoration jobs cost about $2,000 to $6,000, according to HomeGuide's cost guide. Water removal and drying alone usually runs $4 to $12 per square foot. Small clean-water leaks cost far less, and sewage or flood jobs with rebuilding can cost much more.
Cost by type of water
The biggest factor is how contaminated the water is. The IICRC S500 standard sorts water into three categories, and cleanup cost rises with each one.
| Category | Common sources | Cleanup and drying, per sq ft* |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1: clean water | Supply lines, faucets, rain | $4 to $6 |
| Category 2: gray water | Washers, dishwashers, toilet overflow without waste | $6 to $9 |
| Category 3: black water | Sewage, floodwater, groundwater | $9 to $12 |
*National figures from HomeGuide for water removal, drying and cleaning. Repairs and rebuilding are extra.
What else drives the price
- Size of the wet area. One bathroom costs less than half a house.
- Materials affected. Tile and concrete dry in place. Carpet pad, drywall and insulation often have to be replaced.
- How long the water sat. Clean water left a day or two can become contaminated and harder to clean.
- Mold. HomeGuide puts mold remediation at about $15 to $30 per square foot, often the most expensive part of the job.
- Rebuild work. New drywall, flooring and cabinets are priced separately from cleanup.
- After-hours calls. Some companies charge more for nights and weekends.
Arizona factors
A few local conditions push costs one way or the other. Slab leaks can mean cutting into tile or concrete to reach the pipe. Monsoon floodwater counts as contaminated, which raises the cleanup rate. Dry desert air helps, but it doesn't change the work needed inside walls and under floors.
Waiting costs more
Delay is the most expensive choice. The EPA advises drying water-damaged materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold. Once mold starts, the job adds containment, removal and replacement, and the price climbs.
How to get an accurate estimate
- Get an on-site inspection. A phone quote can't see inside your walls.
- Ask for a written, itemized estimate before work starts.
- Ask which water category applies and how moisture was measured.
- Call your insurer early. Sudden damage, like a burst pipe, is often covered, minus your deductible.
For contaminated water, see our sewage cleanup service. For storm damage, see flood damage repair. Start with a free assessment from Arizona Water Damage Pros.