What is water damage restoration?

Water damage restoration is the process of removing water, drying affected materials, and restoring your property after leaks, appliance failures, storms, or flooding. At Rapid Dry, we follow IICRC S500 standards, ensuring everything is dried, cleaned, and restored safely and thoroughly. Whether it’s a busted pipe in Killeen or a slab leak in Temple, we’re on it.

What are the types of water damage?

Water damage falls into three categories according to the IICRC S500:

  • Category 1 (Clean Water): From a sanitary source like a burst pipe or supply line.

  • Category 2 (Gray Water): Contaminated water from sources like washing machines, dishwashers, or overflows.

  • Category 3 (Black Water): Grossly contaminated—think sewage backups, toilet overflows, or floodwater from outside.

🧪 Identifying the correct category is crucial because it dictates the cleaning protocols, personal protective equipment (PPE), and drying techniques we use.

Is water damage restoration covered by insurance?

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as a pipe bursting or a water heater failing. However, gradual damage or neglect may not be covered. That’s why we document everything using Xactimate, the insurance industry standard estimating software, and work directly with your adjuster so you don’t have to play middleman.

How much does water damage restoration cost?

Restoration costs vary depending on:

  • The category and class of water damage

  • The extent of the affected area

  • Materials involved (drywall, hardwood, carpet, etc.)

  • Equipment and labor needed

We aim to bill insurance directly whenever possible, minimizing out-of-pocket stress. Want a real quote? Call Rapid Dry at 254-218-3757 for a free inspection in Killeen, Belton, Temple, or anywhere in Bell County.

Do I need to be home during the restoration process?

It’s helpful if you’re there for the initial assessment, especially to sign off and ask questions. After that, you don’t have to babysit the job. We provide daily moisture readings, drying logs, and progress updates—keeping you informed while we handle the dirty work.

How long does it take to dry my home after water damage?

Typical dry-outs take 3 to 5 days, but that depends on:

  • Building materials (concrete dries slower than drywall)

  • Severity and category of water

  • Environmental conditions (humidity, temperature)

We use professional moisture meters, thermal imaging, and drying logs to ensure your home meets IICRC standards before we pull the plug on equipment.

Flooded living room with water up to the base of a couch, indicating water damage in need of professional restoration

Water Restoration
FAQ

What should I do before water damage restoration begins?

First, stay safe—avoid any contact with contaminated water, especially if it's from a sewer backup or flooding. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the water source to stop further damage. Take photos or videos of all affected areas for your insurance claim. Lastly, move valuables or sentimental items to a dry, secure place.

Will my walls or floors need to be removed?

We always aim to save materials whenever possible, but if drywall, insulation, or flooring is soaked beyond recovery, removal may be necessary to prevent mold, rot, and structural issues. We’ll walk you through exactly what needs to go and why, following IICRC S500 guidelines.

Can I turn off the drying equipment?

Short answer? Please don’t. Our air movers and dehumidifiers are calibrated to run non-stop to meet industry drying standards. Turning them off can slow the process, cause secondary damage, or even restart microbial growth. If it’s too loud or in the way, let us know—we’ll work with you to find a safe solution.

What if I’m a renter?

If you're renting, we'll need approval from the property owner or management before starting full restoration work. That said, we do offer extraction-only services at a discounted rate for tenants who need immediate help. We’ll also help document everything so you’re protected from liability if damage worsens.

Do you offer mold remediation?

While we don't currently offer mold remediation, our focus is on preventing mold in the first place through fast and effective water damage restoration. If mold is already present or becomes an issue, we’ll refer you to a licensed mold remediation professional who follows Texas S520 mold protocols.

How can I prevent mold after water damage?

Mold can begin forming in as little as 24–48 hours, especially in Texas humidity. The key to prevention is rapid moisture removal and environmental control. That’s why we respond 24/7 and use industrial-grade equipment to get things dry fast. If mold is suspected later, we’ll help you connect with certified pros.

💧 Need help now? Call Rapid Dry at 254-218-3757 for 24/7 emergency water damage restoration in Killeen, Belton, and surrounding areas.

Still have questions?

Give us a call!

🏡 Essential Websites for Texas Homeowners

🌀 Disaster & Emergency Assistance

💧 Water Damage & Mold Regulations

  • CDC Mold Resources – https://www.cdc.gov/mold
    (Health information related to mold exposure and remediation guidelines.)

  • EPA Mold Resources – https://www.epa.gov/mold
    (Guidance on mold clean-up in homes and buildings.)

  • IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) – https://www.iicrc.org
    (Official standards for water and mold restoration, including S500 & S520.)

  • OSHA Mold Remediation Guidelines – https://www.osha.gov/mold
    (Safety guidelines for workers dealing with mold remediation.)

  • Texas Mold Assessment & Remediation (TDLR) – https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/mld/mldlaw.htm
    (Covers licensing, procedures, and legal requirements for mold remediation in Texas.)

  • Texas Administrative Code – Mold Regulations (16 TAC Chapter 78) – https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.ViewTAC?tac_view=4&ti=16&pt=4&ch=78
    (Outlines rules for mold assessment and remediation companies in Texas.)

🏠 Home Insurance & Consumer Protection

  • Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) – https://www.tdi.texas.gov
    (Insurance-related regulations, resources, and complaint assistance in Texas.)

  • Texas Attorney General – Renters’ Rights on Mold – https://texaslawhelp.org/article/mold-and-renters-rights-in-texas
    (Legal rights and protections for renters dealing with mold issues.)

  • Better Business Bureau (BBB) Texas – https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-the-heart-of-texas
    (Check contractor reputations and file complaints if needed.)

⚡ Utilities & Water Management

  • Texas Water Development Board (TWDB) – https://www.twdb.texas.gov
    (Focuses on water planning and flood mitigation programs in Texas.)

  • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) – https://www.tceq.texas.gov
    (Manages environmental regulations, including water quality and mold oversight in Texas.)

🌪 Weather & Flood Preparedness

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Flood Resources – https://www.noaa.gov
    (Provides forecasts and data for flood preparedness.)

  • Texas Storm Preparedness (Ready.gov) – https://www.ready.gov/texas
    (Emergency preparedness tips specific to Texas weather threats.)

🛠 Home Repairs & Contractor Help

  • Texas Residential Construction Commission (Builder Disputes & Help) – https://www.tdi.texas.gov/bulletins/2009/cc24.html
    (Information on handling disputes with contractors and home builders.)

  • Texas Consumer Protection (Attorney General’s Office) – https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/consumer-protection
    (Resources to protect homeowners from fraud and scams.)

  • Check Contractor License (Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation - TDLR) – https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/
    (Verify that a contractor is licensed to perform work in Texas.)

💰 Insurance & Restoration Business Support