Flooded basement cleanup runs $4–$12 per square foot — about $1,600 to $12,000+ by size and water type. 2026 ranges, DIY limits and prevention.

Drying runs 3-5 days; full water damage restoration takes days for small jobs and 2-6 weeks with rebuild. Timeline by stage, costs, and what adds weeks.

Sudden and accidental is covered; gradual leaks, sewer backup and flood are not. Average paid claim: $15,400 (Triple-I). What protects your payout.

Water damage restoration runs $3-$7.50 per square foot for mitigation, plus $20-$37 to rebuild. 2026 per-sq-ft prices by water category.

Water damage restoration averages $3,867 (HomeAdvisor 2026), or $3-$7+ per sq ft by water type. Costs by category, class, room and how to save.