Water Damage Restoration

How much does it cost to repair a water-damaged ceiling?

Updated 2026-10-19 · Reviewed by the HomeServiceBud Editorial Team

Short answer

Ceiling repair after water damage typically costs $350–$1,300, depending on the size of the damaged area and whether insulation and drywall must be replaced. Separate drywall repairs run $300–$850 per area. Always fix the leak first, usually a roof or plumbing problem, or the stain will return.

Key takeaways

  • Short answer: Ceiling repair after water damage typically costs $350–$1,300, depending on the size of the damaged area and whether insulation and drywall must be replaced.
  • Ceiling repair: $350–$1,300
  • Drywall repair: $300–$850 per area
  • Fix the leak source first
  • Typical water damage restoration cost: $1,270–$5,376 per typical job.

Typical costs

ItemTypical cost
Ceiling repair$350–$1,300
Drywall repair$300–$850 per area
Roof leak repair$378–$1,186 per repair
Mold remediation add-on$1,373–$3,325

Repair steps

  1. Stop the leak and move belongings out of the way.
  2. Poke a small hole to drain a sagging, water-filled bulge into a bucket.
  3. Dry the area completely; wet insulation usually needs replacement.
  4. Replace damaged drywall, then prime with a stain-blocking primer and paint.

A ceiling stain that keeps spreading or smells musty may hide mold. See mold remediation costs.

Related questions

Can I just paint over a water stain?

Only after the leak is fixed and the drywall is dry and solid; use a stain-blocking primer first.

Will insurance cover a damaged ceiling?

Usually if a sudden covered event, like a burst pipe or storm, caused it; not for long-term leaks.

When does a ceiling need replacing?

If drywall sags, crumbles or stays wet, cut it out and replace it.

Other water damage restoration questions homeowners ask

How much does it cost to fix a water-damaged ceiling?

A small patch is relatively inexpensive, but larger repairs that include drying, new drywall, insulation and paint cost more. Fix the leak source first or the damage returns.

How much does water damage restoration cost?

A typical restoration job costs about $1,270–$5,376. Clean-water jobs are priced around $3.30–$4.10 per square foot nationally, and sewage cleanups cost more.

How fast does mold grow after water damage?

Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours on wet drywall, carpet pad and wood, which is why fast drying matters.

Water Damage Restoration at a glance

Timeline

Drying usually takes 3–5 days. Rebuilding drywall, flooring and cabinets adds 1–4 weeks.

Permits

Drying needs no permit, but rebuild work such as electrical, plumbing or structural repairs may.

DIY or pro?

A small clean-water spill dried within 24–48 hours can be DIY. Anything that soaks drywall, flooring or insulation, or any sewage, needs professional drying.

What water damage restoration costs

Water damage restoration averages about $3,250, with most jobs costing $1,270–$5,376. Price depends on the water category (clean, gray or sewage), how much area is wet and how much drywall, flooring or subfloor must be replaced.

See the full water damage restoration cost breakdown →

Keep reading

Water Damage Restoration: the complete guideCategory 2 vs. Category 3 water damage: what's the difference?How much does water damage restoration cost per square foot?Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?How long does it take to dry out water damage?What should I do in the first 24 hours after water damage?

Sources: LawnStarter — Water damage restoration cost (2026). Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.