Water Damage Questions & Answers

Stay out of the water until the power to the basement is off. Stop the source if it's a plumbing leak, photograph the water line and damage, move what you can reach safely and call for water removal. Then call your insurer. See our guide to the first steps after a flooded basement.

Close the main water shutoff, cut power to wet areas from a dry location, open a faucet to drain the lines, photograph the damage, then call a plumber for the pipe and a restoration contractor for the water.

The average homeowners claim paid for water damage and freezing was about $15,400 for 2019 to 2023, according to ISO data published by the Insurance Information Institute. That figure often includes rebuilding, so many smaller jobs cost less.

It depends on the water category, how much of the house is wet, how long it sat, the materials and the rebuild scope. Our cost guide explains each factor and how to compare estimates.

Notify your insurer immediately, photograph and video everything, make a list of damaged items, keep receipts for emergency repairs, prevent further damage if it's safe, and keep damaged items until the adjuster says otherwise. Georgia's insurance commissioner's office takes complaints at 1-800-656-2298.

A persistent musty smell, stains or bubbling paint, soft or cupping floors, loose baseboards, mold spots, higher humidity and a water bill that jumps for no reason. A toilet dye test and moisture meters can help confirm a leak.

We don't rank companies. The best choice is a company with technicians trained to the IICRC S500 standard, a clear written scope and drying plan, moisture documentation, and the Georgia contractor license that repair work over $2,500 requires. Our hiring guide has a full checklist.

The EPA says to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. After that window, mold becomes increasingly likely, especially in humid weather.

It depends on the cause and your policy. Internal plumbing damaged by freezing and the resulting damage are typically covered, while flood generally needs a separate flood policy and sewer backup often needs an endorsement.

Cobb County says homeowners are responsible for the sewer pipes on their property and their internal plumbing, while the county manages public sewer lines. Cobb County Water System customers can reach Emergency Dispatch at 770-419-6201.

Often several days, depending on the amount of water, how long it sat, the materials and the humidity. Drying should continue until moisture readings show materials have reached their goals.

Often, if the damage is limited and the power is safe. With sewage, widespread flooding, electrical hazards or extensive mold, staying elsewhere may be safer. Ask the contractor and your insurer about additional living expenses.

Yes. In December 2022 metro Atlanta stayed below freezing for about three days and fell to 8 degrees on Christmas Eve morning, and burst pipes flooded homes, apartments and businesses across the region.

Generally not. Flood damage from surface water is usually covered only by a separate flood policy, and most new NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period.

Kennesaw, including Downtown, Legacy Park, Pinetree Country Club, Heritage Park, the Kennesaw Mountain area, Marietta Country Club, the Stilesboro Road area and Ridenour, plus Acworth, Cartersville, Dallas, Holly Springs and Powder Springs.