How much does water damage restoration cost?
Updated 2026-11-02
National cost guides put a typical water damage restoration job at roughly $1,300 to $6,300, with an average around $3,500 to $3,800. Small clean-water jobs cost far less, while large sewage or whole-basement jobs can run well into five figures.
| Source | Typical range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| HomeAdvisor (2025, national) | $1,364 to $6,301 (full range $450 to $16,000) | $3,833 |
| Bob Vila, citing Angi/HomeAdvisor | $1,305 to $5,707 | $3,455 |
Sources: HomeAdvisor, Bob Vila. National estimates, not Sioux Falls quotes.
What changes the price?
- Type of water: clean water from a supply line costs least; sewage costs most because materials are removed and disinfected
- Area and depth: square footage and how high the water wicked into walls
- Speed: starting within a day usually means less tear-out
- Rebuild: drywall, flooring and trim are often priced separately from drying
Which insurance pays for which water?
| Source of water | Usually covered by |
|---|---|
| Sudden burst pipe or appliance leak | Homeowners policy |
| Surface flooding or rising river | Flood insurance (NFIP), not homeowners (SD Division of Insurance) |
| Sewer or drain backup, sump failure | Only with a water backup endorsement |
NFIP flood policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts, so buy before the spring melt, not during it (FEMA).