Water damage can strike any property, be it a small bedroom or a multi-story hotel. As one might expect, the costs associated with restoring these spaces to their original condition can vary significantly. At the core of this variation is the scope of the damage. A minor leakage in a solitary room is, naturally, going to be less expensive to fix than extensive water damage spread across several floors of a 20-story hotel. In this article, we’ll discuss the various factors that affect the cost of water damage restoration.
Determining the Scope and Size of the Loss
Size Matters
The size of the affected area plays a major role in restoration costs. For instance, earlier in the year, there was a significant water damage loss in a 20-story hotel where multiple rooms were affected. The cost for this type of massive job would be significantly higher than for a smaller residential property with localized damage.
Assessing the Extent of Damage
Another critical aspect to consider is the extent to which the water has infiltrated the property. Has it been contained within a single area, or has it spread, causing secondary damage to previously unaffected rooms? The latter scenario might result in a more complicated restoration process, and subsequently, a heftier price tag.
Evaluating the Source of Water Damage
The source and category of the water causing the damage are pivotal in determining restoration costs.
Category 1
This is water from a clean source, such as a refrigerator line or a supply line. Since it’s uncontaminated, the restoration might be straightforward unless left untreated for an extended period.
Category 2
This water is slightly contaminated and can cause discomfort or sickness if ingested. It might come from sources like dishwashers, washing machines, or toilet overflows with urine but no feces.
Category 3
This is the most contaminated water, often likened to sewage water. Restoring properties affected by this type of water is more intensive, as it involves not only water extraction but also extensive cleaning and sanitation.
It’s imperative to note that the category of water impacts the cost because additional precautions are necessary. These precautions ensure that restoration workers are safe and that the property is secure and healthy for occupants.
Dangers of Prolonged Water Exposure
How long the water has been sitting in a property can substantially influence the restoration cost. With time, water can spread, increasing the amount of damage, and introducing additional challenges like mold growth. Water damage left untreated can escalate in a couple of ways:
Mold Growth
The longer water stays stagnant, the higher the chances for mold to start growing. Mold remediation is an entirely different beast, often requiring specialized treatment and adding to the overall cost.
Secondary Damage
As mentioned, water can move to previously unaffected rooms, causing additional damage. This not only complicates the restoration process but also bumps up the costs.
Conclusion
The average cost of water damage restoration isn’t a fixed number. It’s influenced by various factors like the scope of damage, source of water, and the time elapsed since the incident. Property owners should act promptly when they notice water damage to avoid further complications and potential increases in restoration costs. Contact Service Restoration today to learn more about the average cost of water damage restoration.
