A water line on your wall does not tell the entire story. Moisture can travel into insulation, flooring layers and cabinetry; a qualified assessment may be needed.
Safety first: Do not cut into or remove wet building materials if electricity, structural conditions, asbestos, lead or contaminated floodwater could pose a hazard.
Drywall and insulation
Drywall and insulation absorb water, and contamination may remain inside cavities. Materials saturated by sewage or outdoor floodwater often need removal. Clean-water damage can sometimes be addressed differently, but the decision depends on whether the assembly can be thoroughly dried and the original water source corrected.
Carpet and padding
Carpet padding retains water and may be difficult to dry. After sewage or floodwater exposure, contaminated porous flooring often needs to be discarded. Do not assume a surface that feels dry has dry material underneath.
Wood floors and laminate
Wood can absorb moisture and warp; some material may be salvageable depending on how quickly it is safely dried. Laminate and layered products can swell at seams. Ask for moisture evaluation before refinishing or replacing a floor.
Sofas, mattresses and household items
Porous furniture, mattresses and soft items exposed to floodwater can trap contamination. EPA and CDC guidance advises discarding many items that cannot be cleaned and fully dried quickly, particularly after contaminated water.
Kitchen cabinets and built-ins
Inspect toe kicks, cabinet backs and areas under sinks for persistent moisture. Some components may be repairable, while saturated particleboard may not recover. Avoid concealing damp cavities behind new finishes.
Four questions for the estimate
- Where did the water originate: a clean pipe, outdoor floodwater, or sewage?
- Which materials are wet above or below what is visible?
- What cleaning, drying, removal or replacement is proposed—and why?
- What is included, who will do the work, and what may trigger a change order?
When ACS can assist
Describe the affected rooms, materials and water source when you ask ACS Air Care for a property-service estimate. Availability and the qualified provider for any regulated work will be confirmed before a contract.
Keep reading
Official guidance & reporting
These links provide additional official safety information. News reporting is identified separately. Service availability and assistance programs can change.