How the calculator works
The extraction and drying line multiplies your square footage by HomeAdvisor's 2026 per-square-foot figures: about $3.50 for clean water, $5.25 for gray water and $7.50 for black water, with a 20% band either side to allow for local labor costs. Lower drywall assumes a 2-foot flood cut around the perimeter of the wet area at $1.50 to $3 per square foot. Carpet uses $1 to $11 per square foot, ceilings $450 to $1,600, hardwood or subfloor drying and repair $200 to $550, and mold remediation $1,100 to $3,400.
It does not include fixing the pipe or appliance that leaked, replacing flooring outright, contents cleaning or rebuild work beyond drywall. The full breakdown is in our water damage restoration cost guide, and the categories and classes guide explains clean, gray and black water.
Calculator questions
How accurate is this water damage cost calculator?
It gives a planning range, not a quote. It applies HomeAdvisor's 2026 per-square-foot figures for each water category with a 20% band either side for local labor costs, and adds typical ranges for carpet, drywall, ceilings, floors and mold. A company inspecting the damage will give you a written estimate.
Why does dirty water cost so much more?
With Category 2 and 3 water, porous materials like carpet pad and drywall that the water touched usually have to be removed and the area disinfected, instead of being dried in place. Crews also need protective equipment.
Does the estimate include fixing the leak?
No. It covers extraction, drying and the most common material repairs. Repairing the pipe, appliance or roof that caused the water is a separate plumbing or roofing job.
Will insurance cover the amount shown?
If the water came from something sudden and accidental, such as a burst pipe, homeowners insurance often pays for mitigation and repairs, minus your deductible. Flood water from outside and long-term leaks are usually excluded.