IICRC WRT Certified Specialists | 60-Minute Response Guarantee | 24/7 Emergency Service
Water spreads rapidly through walls, floors, and belongings. Our 60-minute response time protects your property from escalating damage and mold growth.
Water damage restoration is the process of returning your San Diego property to its pre-loss condition after water intrusion from burst pipes, flooding, appliance malfunctions, or roof leaks. Our IICRC-certified technicians use advanced equipment and proven methodologies to extract water, dry structures, prevent mold growth, and restore your home or business.
Immediate 24/7 dispatch with guaranteed 60-minute arrival time anywhere in San Diego County. Every minute counts when water is actively damaging your property.
Industrial-grade pumps and extraction equipment remove standing water quickly, preventing further structural damage and mold growth within the critical first 24-48 hours.
Thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters identify hidden water in walls, floors, and ceilings that can cause long-term damage if left untreated.
Commercial dehumidifiers and air movers create optimal drying conditions, typically achieving complete structural drying within 3-5 days depending on severity.
Don't wait for visible damage to worsen. Call Cal Coast immediately if you notice any of these warning signs:
IICRC-certified methodology proven to restore properties efficiently and completely
Timeline: Within 5 minutes
When you call our emergency line (619-320-2700), we answer immediately—no automated systems, no callbacks. We gather critical information about your situation and dispatch our nearest technician. You'll receive an estimated arrival time and technician contact information within minutes.
Timeline: 30-60 minutes on-site
Our IICRC WRT-certified technicians conduct a thorough inspection using thermal imaging cameras and moisture meters to identify all affected areas, including hidden water damage. We determine the water category (clean, gray, or black water), assess structural damage, and develop a comprehensive restoration plan.
Timeline: 1-4 hours depending on volume
Using industrial truck-mounted pumps and portable extraction units, we remove all standing water from your property. Speed is critical—the faster we extract water, the less damage occurs to flooring, walls, and furnishings. Our equipment can remove thousands of gallons per hour.
Timeline: 3-5 days average
We deploy commercial-grade air movers and dehumidifiers strategically throughout your property to create optimal drying conditions. Our technicians monitor moisture levels twice daily, adjusting equipment placement as needed. Drying continues until all materials reach acceptable moisture content levels.
Timeline: 1-2 days
After drying is complete, we clean and sanitize all affected areas using EPA-approved antimicrobial treatments. This prevents mold growth and eliminates bacteria, especially important for gray water (washing machine, dishwasher) or black water (sewage, flooding) situations.
Timeline: 1-3 weeks depending on scope
The final step involves restoring your property to pre-loss condition. This may include minor repairs like replacing drywall and flooring, or major reconstruction like rebuilding entire rooms. As a full-service restoration company, we handle everything from water damage through final reconstruction.
Understanding the most frequent causes helps prevent future incidents
Most common cause in San Diego homes
Aging pipes, corrosion, high water pressure, and temperature fluctuations cause pipes to burst or leak. Especially common in older San Diego homes with original galvanized plumbing. Supply lines under sinks and to toilets are frequent failure points.
Seasonal risk (December-March)
While San Diego is known for sunshine, winter storms can bring heavy rainfall that overwhelms drainage systems, causes roof leaks, and floods low-lying properties. Flash flooding in canyons and valleys is a particular concern.
Average lifespan: 8-12 years
Water heaters hold 40-80 gallons and can flood multiple rooms when tanks fail. Corrosion, sediment buildup, and age are primary causes. Regular inspection and replacement before failure prevents catastrophic water damage.
Often undetected until major damage
Missing shingles, damaged flashing, and aging roofing materials allow water intrusion during rainfall. Water travels along rafters and insulation before appearing as ceiling stains, by which time significant hidden damage may exist.
Washing machines, dishwashers, refrigerators
Supply line failures, drain clogs, and malfunctioning pumps cause appliance-related flooding. Washing machine hoses are a leading cause—rubber hoses should be replaced every 5 years, braided steel hoses every 10 years.
Requires immediate professional response
Tree root intrusion, main line blockages, and municipal sewer backups cause black water contamination requiring specialized cleanup. This is a health hazard requiring EPA-compliant restoration procedures.
Common in San Diego's climate
Condensate line clogs, drain pan overflow, and evaporator coil leaks cause water damage, especially in attics and ceilings. Often undetected until water stains appear on ceilings below the air handler.
Gradual damage over time
Improperly sealed windows and foundation cracks allow water intrusion during rain. Particularly common in older San Diego homes and properties built on hillsides where water runoff is an issue.
Our technicians hold the Water Restoration Technician (WRT) certification from the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification—the gold standard in our industry. This means we follow proven, science-based restoration protocols.
Unlike competitors who promise "fast" response, we guarantee arrival within 60 minutes anywhere in San Diego County, 24/7. Our technicians live locally and carry fully-stocked trucks, ready to start work immediately upon arrival.
We work directly with all major insurance carriers, handling documentation, estimates, and billing. Most homeowners pay only their deductible. We navigate the claims process so you don't have to stress during an already difficult time.
Thermal imaging cameras reveal hidden moisture. Moisture meters provide accurate readings. Industrial extraction equipment and commercial dehumidifiers ensure thorough, efficient restoration. We invest in professional-grade equipment, not consumer rentals.
From water extraction through final reconstruction, we handle every step. No need to coordinate multiple contractors. One company, one point of contact, complete restoration. This ensures faster completion and better quality control.
We maintain perfect 5-star ratings on Google, Yelp, HomeAdvisor, and Angi. Our customers consistently praise our honesty, quality work, and stress-free experience. We don't take advantage of people during emergencies—we help them.
Water damage restoration typically costs $2,000-$30,000+ depending on severity, water category, and affected area size. Minor incidents (small pipe leak, limited area) might be $2,000-$5,000. Moderate damage (multiple rooms, structural drying needed) runs $5,000-$12,000. Major incidents (flooding, extensive damage) can exceed $30,000. Most homeowners insurance covers water damage restoration, meaning you typically pay only your deductible ($500-$2,500). We provide free inspections with transparent estimates before any work begins.
Simple water damage (one room, clean water, quick extraction) typically takes 3-5 days for complete drying. Moderate cases (multiple rooms, structural drying) usually require 5-7 days. Extensive damage (flooding, black water, major reconstruction) can take 2-3 weeks or longer. Drying time depends on materials affected, extent of saturation, humidity levels, and airflow. We monitor daily with moisture meters and adjust timelines as needed.
For minor water damage affecting limited areas, you can usually stay home—equipment noise and dehumidifier hum are the main inconveniences. For moderate to extensive damage, especially if bedrooms or bathrooms are affected, temporary relocation may be more comfortable. For black water (sewage) situations, relocation is often necessary for health and safety. We'll assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations.
Most homeowners insurance covers sudden, accidental water damage like burst pipes, appliance failures, or roof leaks from storms. Insurance typically does NOT cover gradual leaks, maintenance issues, or flooding from outside sources (requires separate flood insurance). We work directly with all major insurance carriers, handle documentation, and help maximize your coverage. Call us immediately after water damage—we'll guide you through the insurance process.
Clean water (Category 1): From clean sources like supply lines or rain—lowest risk, easier cleanup. Gray water (Category 2): From appliances, washing machines, or clean toilet overflow—contains contaminants requiring antimicrobial treatment. Black water (Category 3): From sewage, flooding, or standing water over 48 hours—health hazard requiring EPA-compliant procedures and full PPE. Category affects cleanup protocols, costs, and whether contents can be salvaged.
Mold begins growing within 24-48 hours on wet organic materials (drywall, wood, carpet, insulation). Professional water damage restoration prevents mold by: (1) Extracting water within hours, (2) Achieving complete structural drying within 3-5 days, (3) Monitoring moisture levels until materials are completely dry, (4) Applying antimicrobial treatments to affected areas. If restoration is delayed or DIY attempts are incomplete, mold growth is likely and requires separate remediation.
For very minor spills affecting small areas with immediate cleanup (within 1-2 hours), DIY may work if you have fans and dehumidifiers. However, professional restoration is strongly recommended for: Standing water of any depth, water from contaminated sources, water affecting structural materials, water in walls or under flooring, situations where mold prevention is critical. DIY attempts often miss hidden moisture, leading to mold growth and higher costs later. Our free inspection can assess whether DIY is viable or professional help is needed.
Yes, we handle everything. We work with all major insurance carriers including State Farm, Allstate, Farmers, USAA, and 50+ others. We document damage with photos and thermal imaging, provide detailed estimates in insurance-preferred formats, communicate directly with adjusters, and handle billing. You approve the work, we coordinate with insurance. Most customers pay only their deductible—insurance covers the rest.
Take these immediate steps: (1) Call us at 619-320-2700 for 60-minute emergency response, (2) Stop the water source if safe (shut off main water valve, turn off appliance), (3) Move valuable items to dry areas if safe, (4) Do NOT use regular vacuum cleaners on water (electrical hazard), (5) Do NOT use hair dryers or heat to dry materials (can cause more damage), (6) Take photos/videos for insurance documentation, (7) Do NOT delay—every hour increases damage and costs.
No, they're different but related. Water damage restoration focuses on extracting water, drying structures, and preventing future problems—done within 24-48 hours prevents mold. Mold remediation removes existing mold growth and treats contaminated materials—necessary when water damage wasn't addressed quickly or hidden moisture went undetected. We provide both services. Fast water damage restoration often prevents the need for mold remediation.
Yes, always. We provide free emergency inspections 24/7 with no obligation. Our certified technicians assess damage, use moisture detection equipment, document for insurance, and provide transparent cost estimates before any work begins. You'll know exactly what to expect—no surprises, no hidden fees. If insurance is involved, we explain your coverage and likely out-of-pocket costs.
It depends on water category, exposure time, and material type. Hardwood floors: Can often be saved if dried properly within 48-72 hours using specialized mat drying systems. Carpet: Clean water exposure under 48 hours can usually be saved; gray/black water or extended exposure requires replacement. Contents: Non-porous items can usually be cleaned; porous items (upholstery, books) require specialized restoration. We assess each item and recommend save vs. replace based on safety and cost-effectiveness.
Trusted by San Diego homeowners since 2016
Every minute of delay increases damage and costs. Our certified technicians are ready to respond 24/7.
Get Emergency Help Now: 619-320-270060-minute response guarantee • Free inspection • Direct insurance billing