Water damage restoration, Sydney
Water damage restoration dries out and repairs a property after a burst pipe, storm, roof leak or flood. Left untreated, trapped moisture leads to swollen timber, mould growth and, in some cases, structural timber decay, so speed matters as much as workmanship.
A specialist typically starts with moisture detection to map how far the water has travelled (often further than it looks), then extraction, industrial drying equipment, and repairs to any damaged linings, flooring or fittings once everything is confirmed dry.
Typical job value: $5,000 – $50,000
We connect you with licensed local specialists; we don't carry out the work ourselves.
Prefer to talk? Call (02) 5926 2168
What's involved
Moisture assessment
Detection equipment maps how far the water has spread, including inside wall cavities and under flooring.
Water extraction
Standing water is removed with pumps and wet vacuums before drying begins.
Structural drying
Commercial dehumidifiers and air movers dry out framing, flooring and linings over several days, with moisture levels checked along the way.
Repairs and reinstatement
Damaged plaster, flooring or fittings are replaced once everything is confirmed dry.
What affects the price
- How much water, and how long it sat before being found
- Number of rooms or levels affected
- Whether flooring or built-in joinery needs replacing rather than drying
- Access for drying equipment
- Whether it's a make-safe only or a full repair-and-reinstate job
Licensing and permits
Restoration work itself isn't a single licensed trade, but any building repairs that follow (replacing plasterboard, flooring, or electrical fittings affected by water), should be carried out or supervised by a licensed tradesperson for that scope of work, per NSW Fair Trading licensing requirements. If the damage is insurance-related, your insurer may also require a scope of works before repairs begin.
Common questions
Will my insurance cover this?
Often, if the cause is a sudden event like a burst pipe or storm, check your policy. Gradual leaks or maintenance issues are less likely to be covered. Get a written assessment early; insurers usually want documentation of the extent of damage.
How long does drying take?
Typically three to five days for a contained area with the right equipment running continuously, longer for larger areas or where water has gotten into wall cavities or under flooring.
What happens if mould has already started?
Mould remediation is usually handled alongside drying; affected materials are removed if they can't be dried and cleaned safely, and the area is treated before repairs begin.
Can I stay in the property during restoration?
Often yes for a contained, single-area job. Larger jobs affecting multiple rooms or essential services, like the only bathroom, may need temporary arrangements; your specialist will tell you what to expect.
How fast should I act after a leak or flood?
As soon as possible. Mould can begin developing within 24–48 hours in damp conditions, so getting moisture detection and drying started quickly reduces both the damage and the cost of repair.
Do you handle the insurance claim for me?
We connect you with a specialist who can provide a scope of works and photos for your claim, but the claim itself is between you and your insurer.
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