Flooded Basement, Electrical + Remediation Costs — Is This Too Much?

Flooded Basement, Electrical + Remediation Costs — Is This Too Much?

Member since 2020 · 14 posts · 10 votes

Hey all,

Looking for some feedback and advice.

During the recent heavy rains in Missouri, a window broke at my duplex property, causing the basement to flood. The tenant called 911, and the fire department shut off both the power and gas for safety reasons.

Now I’m facing a significant bill:

  • The electrician quoted $6,000 to replace the entire electrical service. Both the breaker box and internal wiring were exposed to water and mud, so they’re recommending a full replacement for Units A and B.

  • The environmental remediation company )gave a quote for $16,000 to clean up the mud, remove water-damaged items, apply antimicrobial treatment, and do HEPA vacuuming. DO I REALLY NEED IT?

  • The insurance company denied the claim, saying it's a flooding event, which isn't covered under the policy.

Here’s what I want to ask:

  1. Does this pricing seem reasonable? 

  2. Has anyone successfully challenged a flood denial under similar circumstances (i.e., caused by broken windows during rain, not river overflow)?

  3. Any tips on reducing costs or dealing with this out-of-pocket? Is it really neccesary to use a enviromental remediation company?

Really appreciate any insights!

Thanks in advance.

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Theresa HarrisPro Member
Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
1y

Get another quote.  Also go down and rip out the drywall, start cleaning up.  Getting the area dry quickly is important to reduce the chance of mold.

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  • Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    get more quotes

  • Rental Property Investor · Blacksburg, VA · Member since 2020 · 33 posts · 24 votes
    1y

    Hey Varun, that sounds like a mess. Hate to hear you're going through that. The electric quote sounds a little high for replacing a panel and some basement wiring. The remediation company sounds like they are trying to pull one on you. Removing mud, damaged drywall, and making sure there's no mold growing is something any normal contractor or "grunt work" for hire should be able to accomplish. The biggest thing there is just making sure it's completely dried out and no mold is growing before putting back new electric and drywall/flooring etc. A big effort with cleanout/demo and some industrial dehumidifiers should do the trick there. 

    I would continue to explore alternatives with your insurance provider. My insurance agent told me a long time ago to make sure you pay a little extra for the "inland flood" insurance on your premium. It makes sure to cover situations like this. Hope you get it sorted!

  • Theresa HarrisPro Member
    Member since 2019 · 15k+ posts · 11k+ votes
    1y

    Get another quote.  Also go down and rip out the drywall, start cleaning up.  Getting the area dry quickly is important to reduce the chance of mold.

  • Colleen F.Pro Member
    Investor · Narragansett, RI · Member since 2013 · 8k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    1y

    @Varun Chawla  The electric is off.  Gass is off.  Do the basic demo while you are getting quotes (of course none of us have seen it ) .   The biggest damage is letting it sit.    No hope your insurance is going to cover most of it if you don't have flood insurance.  You will need some remediation to prevent mold.  As far as electric is concerned I would not waste time. Yes get other quotes but you want electric soon so you can get a dehumidifier down there and get it cleaned up. Unless your neighbor is loaning you electric the delay is costing you.   Honestly if you expose the  2 x 4s and dispose of the sheetrock most of the remediation is treating the wood.  Is the remediation company doing anything to your furnaces? Were they water damaged?

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