Flood Repair Atlanta is a free referral service that connects Metro Atlanta property owners with independent, licensed water damage restoration companies. Most structural drying takes 3–5 days, and starting within 24–48 hours helps prevent mold.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this service free?
Yes. There's no cost to you to request help. Restoration companies in our network pay for referrals. You only pay the company you hire, and you're never obligated to hire anyone.
Are you a restoration company?
No. We're an independent referral service. We pass your request to an independent, licensed and insured restoration company serving your area, and they contact you directly.
How fast will someone contact me?
For emergencies, the goal is a call back as soon as possible during business hours and promptly after hours. If you have active flooding, shut off the water main and power to affected areas while you wait.
Will my homeowners insurance cover water damage?
It depends on the cause. Sudden, accidental water from inside the home — like a burst pipe — is often covered. Gradual leaks, rising floodwater, and sewer backups are commonly excluded unless you have flood insurance or a sewer backup endorsement. Check your policy and call your agent.
Can the restoration company bill my insurance directly?
Many restoration companies work directly with insurers and can document moisture readings and photos for your claim. Ask about this when they call.
How long does drying take?
Most structural drying takes about three to five days, depending on how much water there was, the materials involved, and how quickly drying started. Professionals take daily moisture readings to confirm when materials are dry.
Do I need to stay out of my home?
For clean-water leaks, usually not. For sewage, contaminated floodwater, or extensive mold, it's often best to keep people and pets out of the affected area until it's cleaned.
How much does water damage restoration cost in Atlanta?
Costs depend on the square footage affected, the water category, and how much material must be removed. Small clean-water jobs can run a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, while large or contaminated losses can exceed $10,000. Ask for a written estimate and whether the company bills your insurer directly.
Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage?
Usually not. Rising surface water and overflowing creeks are typically covered only by a separate flood policy from the NFIP or a private insurer. Water from a sudden internal source, like a burst pipe, is often covered by homeowners insurance.
Where is my main water shut-off valve?
In Atlanta homes it's commonly in the basement or crawlspace where the line enters the house, near the water heater, or in a garage. There's also a curb valve at the meter box near the street, which may need a meter key.
Why does my basement flood when it rains?
Common causes are hydrostatic pressure from saturated clay soil, downspouts discharging too close to the foundation, grading that slopes toward the house, clogged window well drains, and sump pump failures.
How fast does mold grow after water damage?
Mold can start growing on damp materials within 24–48 hours, especially in humid climates like Georgia's.
Is sewage backup covered by insurance?
Many homeowners policies exclude sewer and drain backup unless you add a specific endorsement. Check your policy; the endorsement is usually inexpensive.
Who tarps a roof after a storm?
Many restoration and roofing companies offer emergency tarping and board-up. It's usually considered part of mitigating the loss under your homeowners claim.