How to Price Fire And Water Damage Restoration Jobs in Savannah, GA

The square footage is determined by measuring the total area of all rooms or sections of a property that have been affected by fire or water damage, including walls, floors, and sometimes ceilings, depending on the extent of the damage.

Mitigation typically involves immediate actions to prevent further damage, like water extraction or boarding up, and falls into the lower end of the cost spectrum ($3–$4.5 per sq ft). Restoration is the process of repairing and rebuilding to pre-damage conditions, which is more comprehensive and thus more expensive ($4.5–$7.5 per sq ft).

Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage from fire and water. However, coverage can vary greatly based on the policy and the cause of damage (e.g., flood damage often requires separate insurance). Contractors should advise clients to check with their insurance providers.

It's crucial to include a clause in the contract for handling unforeseen conditions. When such issues arise, immediately communicate with the client, explain the new findings and their implications on the budget and timeline, and obtain written approval for any additional work before proceeding.

Common hidden costs include mold remediation if not initially detected, structural repairs that become apparent after initial demolition, specialized waste disposal, and potential increases in material costs if supply chain issues arise. Thorough initial assessment and contingency planning can help mitigate these surprises.