Quick Cost Overview

• Average water damage repair cost: $2,000 to $5,000
• Minor repairs: $500 to $1,500
• Moderate damage: $1,500 to $4,000
• Major repairs: $4,000 to $8,000+
• Severe multi-room damage: $8,000 to $12,000+
• Cost per square foot: $3 to $10
• Typical out-of-pocket with insurance: usually your deductible when the loss is covered

When the water damage is sudden and accidental, insurance often pays for mitigation, drying, and necessary repairs. Early documentation and fast response help support coverage.

What Affects the Cost?

Water damage costs vary because every loss spreads differently. Insurance carriers also evaluate the cause of loss, which affects what portions of the repair are covered.

The biggest cost factors include:

• Size of the affected area
• Type and category of water
• Materials that absorbed moisture
• How quickly mitigation begins
• Whether mold develops
• Policy coverage and deductible

Fast extraction and professional drying not only reduce repair costs but also help demonstrate that proper mitigation steps were taken for the claim.

Water Damage Cost by Severity

Minor Damage

Small, contained leaks that affect one area.
Often covered when caused by a sudden plumbing failure.

Typical cost: $500 to $1,500
Insurance impact: Frequently covered after deductible

Moderate Damage

Multiple rooms with wet drywall, baseboards, or flooring.

Typical cost: $1,500 to $4,000
Insurance impact: Covered when the source is accidental and documented

Major Damage

Water reaches cabinetry, subfloors, or insulation and requires removal and rebuild.

Typical cost: $4,000 to $8,000+
Insurance impact: Usually covered if mitigation begins promptly

Severe Structural Damage

Framing, electrical systems, or large areas of the home are affected.

Typical cost: $8,000 to $12,000+
Insurance impact: Requires detailed scopes, moisture logs, and carrier review

Cost Per Square Foot

• Clean water: $3 to $4 per sq ft
• Gray water: $4 to $7 per sq ft
• Black water or sewage: $7 to $10+ per sq ft

Insurance coverage may change when contamination is involved because sanitation and safety procedures are required.

Typical Repair Costs by Area

• Ceiling repair: $500 to $1,500
• Drywall replacement: $1 to $3 per sq ft
• Flooring repair: $3 to $10 per sq ft
• Cabinet damage: $200 to $600 per unit
• Electrical inspection and repair: $150 to $500

When materials cannot be dried, carriers often approve targeted removal and replacement as part of the mitigation scope.

How Insurance Affects Your Out-of-Pocket Cost

Most homeowners pay only their deductible when coverage applies.
Claims are more likely to move forward efficiently when:

• The water source is identified and stopped
• Extraction begins quickly
• Moisture readings are documented
• Equipment logs and photos are provided
• A clear scope of work is submitted

Delays, lack of documentation, or evidence of long-term leaks can reduce or deny coverage.

How Fast Action Saves Money and Supports Your Claim

Acting within the first 24 hours:

• Prevents water from spreading into structural materials
• Reduces mold risk
• Shortens drying time
• Demonstrates proper mitigation for insurance

Rapid response often lowers both total repair costs and out-of-pocket expenses.

How Long Do Water Damage Repairs Take?

• Water extraction: a few hours
• Drying: 3 to 5 days
• Repairs and reconstruction: 1 to 3 weeks depending on damage

Insurance carriers typically review drying logs and moisture readings before approving reconstruction.

Is Professional Water Damage Repair Worth It?

Professional water mitigation removes hidden moisture, protects structural components, and provides the documentation required for insurance claims. Incomplete drying can lead to mold, recurring damage, and additional out-of-pocket costs.

Get Help With Water Damage Repair in Arizona

Water damage gets worse by the hour. Start mitigation now to protect your home, reduce repair costs, and keep your insurance claim on track.

National First Response has helped Arizona families recover from water damage since 2008. Licensed, bonded, and insured crews provide same-day extraction, controlled drying, and complete repair services with claim-ready documentation from the first visit.

Call now for immediate response and a clear plan to restore your home.