Frequently Asked Questions

We respond within 60 minutes to any location in San Diego County, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Our technicians are always on call for emergencies.

When you call, we'll dispatch the nearest available crew immediately. Time is critical with water damage—the faster we arrive, the more damage we can prevent.

The timeline depends on the extent of damage:

• Water extraction: Usually completed within a few hours of arrival
• Drying process: Typically 3-5 days with professional equipment
• Complete restoration: 1-2 weeks for minor damage, several weeks for major damage requiring reconstruction

We monitor moisture levels daily and won't remove equipment until your property is completely dry.

In most cases, you can stay in your home during the restoration process. The drying equipment will run continuously but is designed to operate safely around occupants.

However, we may recommend temporary relocation if:

• There's sewage or contaminated water (Category 3)
• Significant mold growth is present
• Electrical systems are compromised
• Large portions of the home are affected

Your safety is our priority, and we'll always be upfront about whether staying is advisable.

If it's safe to do so:

• Stop the water source – Turn off the main water supply if it's a plumbing issue
• Turn off electricity – If water is near electrical outlets or panels
• Move valuables – Relocate important documents, electronics, and sentimental items to a dry area
• Don't use a regular vacuum – Household vacuums aren't designed for water and can be dangerous
• Take photos – Document the damage for insurance purposes

Most importantly, stay safe. If there's any doubt about safety, wait for our team to arrive.

Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. This is why rapid response is critical—the faster we extract water and begin drying, the lower the risk of mold growth.

San Diego's coastal humidity can accelerate mold growth, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Even after visible water is removed, moisture trapped in walls, carpets, and padding can support mold colonies.

Mold can cause health issues, especially for sensitive individuals. Common symptoms include:

• Respiratory irritation (coughing, wheezing)
• Nasal congestion and sinus issues
• Eye and skin irritation
• Allergic reactions

People with asthma, allergies, or compromised immune systems may experience more severe reactions. If you suspect mold, it's important to address it promptly with professional remediation.

Yes, we offer professional mold testing and inspection services. Our process includes:

• Visual inspection of affected and surrounding areas
• Moisture mapping to identify hidden water damage
• Air quality sampling when needed
• Surface sampling of suspected mold growth

Testing helps determine the type and extent of mold present, which guides our remediation approach.

Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage. This typically includes:

• Burst or broken pipes
• Appliance failures (water heater, washing machine, dishwasher)
• Accidental overflow
• Storm damage (depending on your policy)

What's usually NOT covered:

• Gradual leaks or maintenance issues
• Flood damage (requires separate flood insurance)
• Sewer backups (may require additional coverage)

We work directly with all major insurance companies and can help you understand your coverage.

Yes! We work with all insurance companies and handle the claims process for you. Our services include:

• Detailed documentation of all damage
• Photo and video evidence
• Moisture readings and mapping
• Direct communication with your adjuster
• Itemized estimates in insurance-approved formats
• Direct billing to your insurance company

We've worked with State Farm, Allstate, USAA, Farmers, Liberty Mutual, and dozens of other carriers.

Costs vary significantly based on:

• Size of the affected area
• Type of water (clean, gray, or black water)
• Materials affected (carpet, hardwood, drywall)
• Duration of exposure before treatment
• Whether mold remediation is needed

We provide free inspections and detailed estimates before any work begins. If insurance is involved, we work directly with your carrier to ensure proper coverage.

For insurance claims, we typically bill your insurance company directly. You would only be responsible for your deductible.

For non-insurance work, we provide a detailed estimate upfront so you know exactly what to expect. We offer financing options for larger projects.

We serve all of San Diego County, including:

• Coastal: La Jolla, Coronado, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Pacific Beach
• North County: Rancho Santa Fe, Escondido, Poway
• Central: Mission Valley, La Mesa
• South Bay: Chula Vista, Eastlake
• East County: El Cajon, Santee

If your city isn't listed, we still serve you! Call us for service anywhere in San Diego County.

Yes, all our technicians are IICRC certified. IICRC (Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) is the industry standard for restoration professionals.

Our certifications include:

• WRT – Water Damage Restoration Technician
• ASD – Applied Structural Drying
• AMRT – Applied Microbial Remediation Technician

We also maintain all required California contractor licenses and insurance.

Yes! Through Cal Coast Construction, we offer complete reconstruction services. This means one company handles everything from water extraction to final repairs:

• Drywall replacement and repair
• Flooring installation
• Painting
• Cabinetry and trim work
• Complete room rebuilds

Having one company manage the entire process simplifies insurance claims and ensures consistent quality.