Water Damage Calculator
Assess the urgency of your water damage situation, estimate restoration costs, and get immediate action recommendations to minimize damage.
Understanding Water Damage Urgency
Water damage is one of the most time-sensitive home emergencies. The longer water sits, the more damage it causes and the more expensive restoration becomes. Understanding the urgency of your situation can help you make better decisions and potentially save thousands in restoration costs.
The Critical 24-48 Hour Window
- 0-1 hour:Water spreads and saturates materials. Best time to act.
- 1-24 hours:Drywall absorbs water, wood furniture begins warping, metal starts corroding.
- 24-48 hours:Mold begins to grow. This is your critical deadline.
- 48+ hours:Significant mold growth, biohazard concerns, potential structural damage.
Water Categories Explained
Category 1: Clean Water
From supply lines, faucets, rain. Safe to handle but will degrade over time.
Category 2: Gray Water
From appliances, contains contaminants. Wear protective gear during cleanup.
Category 3: Black Water
Sewage or flood water. Serious health hazard. Professional cleanup required.
Insurance Considerations
Document everything before you begin cleanup:
- Take photos and video of all affected areas
- Keep damaged items as evidence (if safe to do so)
- Note the date, time, and source of the water
- Contact your insurance company within 24-48 hours
- Get estimates from licensed restoration companies
Need Professional Help?
Emergency plumbers can stop active leaks and many also offer water damage mitigation services or can connect you with restoration professionals.
Find Emergency Plumbers Near YouFrequently Asked Questions
How quickly does water damage become severe?
Water damage progresses rapidly. Within 24 hours, drywall begins absorbing water and furniture warps. After 48 hours, mold growth typically begins. Within a week, major structural damage and widespread mold can occur. Acting within the first 24-48 hours is critical to minimize damage.
What are the different categories of water damage?
Category 1 (Clean Water) comes from supply lines, faucets, or rain. Category 2 (Gray Water) contains contaminants from appliances like washing machines. Category 3 (Black Water) is severely contaminated from sewage or flooding and poses serious health risks requiring professional cleanup.
How much does water damage restoration typically cost?
Water damage restoration costs vary based on affected area size, water type, and materials. Small clean water incidents may cost $500-1,500. Medium gray water damage typically runs $1,500-4,000. Large black water events requiring professional remediation can exceed $10,000-20,000.
When should I call an emergency plumber for water damage?
Call immediately if water is still actively leaking, if water is near electrical sources, if sewage is involved, or if the affected area is large. Even for smaller incidents, professional help within 24 hours can prevent mold growth and reduce total restoration costs.