Last updated · Written by the Elite Restoration Services of Iowa team
Who provides water damage restoration in Des Moines?
Elite Restoration Services of Iowa, a locally owned, independent restoration company based in Des Moines, provides water damage restoration in Des Moines, along with fire and smoke, mold, storm and sewage cleanup. Elite is an IICRC Certified Firm, BBB A+ accredited, and the on-site inspection is free. Call 515-216-4293, answered 24/7.
What makes Des Moines water damage different?
Des Moines has some of the oldest housing in the metro, including the Victorian-era homes of Sherman Hill, along with plenty of mid-century houses whose basements have seen decades of Iowa weather. Older plumbing, older foundations and floor drains tied into older sewer lines are common sources of water and sewage calls. The city also knows big water events: the 1993 flood left about 250,000 people without drinking water for about 12 days, and the August 10, 2020 derecho brought a measured 75 mph gust at Des Moines International Airport. Storm damage that opens a roof or window often becomes a water job inside.
Common causes of water damage in Des Moines
These are common kinds of losses based on local housing, weather and waterways. They are general, not a statement about any one property.
Older basements and foundations
Seepage through foundation cracks and window wells during heavy rain and spring thaw. See flooded basement cleanup.
Sewer and floor-drain backups
Older lines and heavy rain push sewage up through floor drains. See sewage backup cleanup.
Frozen and burst pipes
Cold snaps split pipes in exterior walls and older crawlspaces. See frozen pipe damage.
Older homes in Sherman Hill and historic neighborhoods
Plaster, wood floors and original trim need careful drying and documentation.
Storm and roof leaks
Wind and hail that open roofs and windows. See storm damage restoration.
Apartments and downtown buildings
Leaks between units and floors. See property managers and commercial.
How we handle a water loss in Des Moines
We follow the IICRC S500 approach to water damage, and we have an IICRC Triple Master on staff. Here is what the job usually looks like.
Free inspection and moisture mapping
Moisture meters show where the water actually traveled, which is often farther than the visible stain. We identify the water type first: clean, gray or sewage.
Stop the damage
The source is stopped or isolated, and belongings are moved out of harm's way.
Extract standing water
Water is pulled out of carpet, pad and hard floors. Extraction removes far more water than fans or evaporation can.
Remove what can't be dried
Soaked pad, or drywall and insulation that have wicked water, are often removed. You get the reason for each item before it comes out.
Dry and monitor
Air movers and dehumidifiers run while readings are taken until materials reach a dry standard. Drying is judged by the readings, not the calendar.
Hand over the file
Photos, moisture logs and a written scope go to you, your adjuster and whichever repair contractor you choose.