2026 cost reference
Typical restoration project$1,383–$6,369
Broad published project range$450–$16,000
Category 1 · clean-water mitigation$3–$4 / sq ft
Category 2 · gray-water mitigation$4–$6.50 / sq ft
Category 3 · black-water mitigation$7–$7.50 / sq ft
Rebuild / reconstruction$20–$37 / rebuilt sq ft
Mitigation is not the rebuild
Extraction, drying, dehumidification and monitoring are the first bill. Drywall, flooring, insulation, trim and paint replacement are a later scope. A quote should make clear which phase its total covers.
Water category moves the drying rate
Published 2026 data shows clean water at the low end and contaminated black water at the high end because safety, disposal and material-removal requirements increase.
Acting quickly changes the scope
The longer materials stay wet, the more likely porous finishes need removal and mold becomes a concern. The calculator does not invent a time multiplier; instead, you enter the rebuild area you actually expect to replace.
Price your actual scope
Open calculatorThe calculator uses the same reviewed source ranges shown on this page.
Citing this guide
These figures may be quoted with attribution and a link. Review date: August 29, 2026.