How Much to Fix a Flooded Basement? Cleanup & Repair Costs
Basement flooding can cause major headaches for homeowners, especially if the basement is finished.
Wet sheetrock, wet insulation, and excessive moisture in the air can cause mold and mildew.
Wet framing can also cause mold and mildew. Soaked framing is especially bad because it can lead to structural damage that can add tens of thousands in repair bills.
Water damage in your basement is usually caused by heavy rainfall, flooding, burst pipes or broken water lines. The best way to avoid large repair bills is to get the problem fixed as fast as possible.
How Much Does Basement Flooding Cleanup Cost?
Basement flooding cleanup costs can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage and flooding. Here are some typical costs for basement flood cleanup and restoration services:
Water extraction/drying costs
Basic water extraction: $350-$850 - Extract standing water and dry wet building materials using water extraction equipment. Cost varies based on size of basement.
In-depth water extraction: $850-$1,500+ - For severe water penetration and saturation into materials like drywall and insulation. Often includes mold treatment.
Cleaning and sanitization costs
Basic cleaning: $500-$1,200 - Remove dirt/debris, clean surfaces, sanitize to remove bacteria and prevent mold.
Extensive cleaning: $1,500+ - Cleaning after sewage backup or extensive dirt/contamination. May involve cleaning ductwork, electronics, etc.
Structural repair costs
Minor repairs: $2,000-$5,000 - Drywall replacement, bottom plate board repairs, installing new insulation.
Major repairs: $5,000-$15,000+ - Structural repairs if flooding caused damage beyond surface materials. May involve masonry, framing, electrical and plumbing repairs.
Equipment costs
- Fans & dehumidifiers: $350+ - Large fans and industrial dehumidifiers to fully dry a flooded basement to prevent mold growth.
So in total, expect to spend $3,500 to over $20,000 for basement flood cleanup and repairs depending on the severity of flooding and necessary restoration work. Contact a water damage restoration company for an inspection and exact quote for your unique situation.
Real-World Basement Flood Cleanup Costs
When my finished basement flooded after a heavy storm, there was only an inch of standing water that I sopped up myself. A restoration company came in, dried the carpets and walls, cleaned and disinfected all the floors and drywall, and installed fans and a dehumidifier for a few days to prevent mold. It cost me $1,850 altogether.
- Janet D., Ohio
After my sewer line burst, my 700 sq ft finished basement had over 6 inches of sewage water penetrate the carpet, walls and storage boxes. A hazmat cleanup crew wore protective equipment to remove all sewage solids and contaminated materials. They cleaned and disinfected all remaining surfaces before tearing out the contaminated drywall insulation. New drywall was installed once the interior framing dried out. I paid $7,500 for the extensive cleanup and repairs.
- Mark F., Illinois
I had 2 feet of rain and river water fill up my 1,000 sq ft finished basement for over a day. The flooding ruined all the carpeting, frieze, drywall, cabinetry and most basement contents. The basement was pumped out and drying equipment installed, but extensive repairs were needed including replacing insulation, 5 feet of drywall paneling, flooring, doors, trim and the electrical outlets halfway up the walls. Mold remediation was also done. My total costs were $12,300.
- Jessica N., Indiana
When underground streams flooded my 1,200 finished basement that housed my woodshop, all the cabinetry, lumber, tools and equipment were damaged by the 4 feet of standing water. All wood materials had to be disposed of due to warping and mold contamination. In addition to extensive structural repairs, all large equipment had to be professionally cleaned and serviced. I ended up paying $22,400 for all the restoration services and replacements.
- Robert T., Maine
Does Insurance Cover Basement Flood Cleanup?
Whether insurance covers basement flood cleanup and water damage depends on several factors:
Homeowners insurance generally does not cover flooding from natural causes like heavy rains. Flood damage is only covered by separate flood insurance policies.
However, most homeowners insurance will cover water damage caused by burst pipes, water heater leaks, appliance malfunctions, and similar water discharge issues.
Sewer/drain back-ups may also be covered if you have sewer back-up coverage or an endorsement. But damage from natural flooding of rivers, lakes, etc still wouldn't be covered.
Flood insurance through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers does cover flood cleanup costs like extracting water, tearing out damaged materials, sanitizing floors/walls, structural repairs, new drywall, etc. Up to $250,000 for structure and $100,000 for contents.
So in short - make sure you understand your homeowners/flood policy to see what basement water damage is actually covered before flooding occurs and restoration work is needed.
Tips to Help Keep Flood Costs Down
It is a good idea to keep everything you store in your basement inside sealed plastic bins. Plastic is not affected by water.
Mold and mildew is easily cleaned up with bleach. Store the contents as high as you are able.
When flooding starts or is expected then turn off all gas powered appliances in the basement.
Shut the electricity off in the basement, as well. This can save you from having to replace power outlets, surge protectors, and whatever was plugged into them.
Try to take photos of your basement before any water damage occurs. This way, if your basement is flooded, you can take pictures after the event and use them for any insurance claims.
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