Directory

Water damage and flood restoration companies

A burst pipe, a failed water heater or a flood needs water out fast: extraction, drying equipment and moisture readings, usually within the first day or two, before mold can start. These companies answer that call, most of them around the clock.

From standing water to a dry, rebuilt room

Illustrations made for this site, not work by the companies listed.

Living room and kitchen under standing floodwater, with a waterline and peeling plaster along the walls
The same living room and kitchen restored, with light oak flooring and fresh white walls

What happens first

  1. Stop the water and stay safe. For a burst pipe, shut off the main water valve. Stay out of standing water where outlets, cords or appliances may be live, and switch off power at the breaker only if you can reach it without standing in water.
  2. Take photos and video of the water and everything it touched, before anything is moved or thrown out. Your insurer will ask for them.
  3. Call your insurer and a restoration company. Both can happen the same day, and most restoration companies are used to working with insurers.
  4. Extraction and drying. The crew pumps and extracts the water, then sets up air movers and dehumidifiers. They take moisture readings each day until walls, floors and framing are dry, which often takes three to five days and longer after heavy flooding.
  5. Removal and rebuild. Carpet pad, drywall and insulation that cannot be dried in time are cut out and replaced.

Why speed matters: mold can start growing on wet materials within 24 to 48 hours. Why the source matters: flood water from outside or sewage backup carries contamination, so materials it touched are usually removed rather than dried.

Questions to ask before you hire

How soon can a crew get here?

Water keeps spreading and soaking in, so ask when a crew can arrive, not just when someone can call back. Many water damage companies run around the clock.

Are your technicians certified?

The IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) sets the industry's common standard, and its Water Damage Restoration Technician course is the usual credential. Ask whether the crew coming to your home holds it.

Will you work with my insurance company?

Most restoration companies do, and many bill the insurer directly. In most cases you choose the company; your insurer may suggest one. Ask for a written estimate, and check with your insurer before signing anything that assigns your claim to the company.

How will I know it is dry?

A good crew measures moisture in walls and floors with meters and keeps a written drying log until the readings reach normal levels. Ask to see it before equipment leaves and walls are closed up.

Are you licensed and insured?

Licensing rules differ by state, so ask what applies where you live, and ask for proof of liability insurance.

Does Restoration Advertising check these companies?

No. The companies supplied their own listings, and the directory does not rate, rank or vet them. That is why the questions above are worth asking whoever you call.

What a water-damaged home often needs next