1-800 Water Damage

1-800 Water Damage

Information based on 2024 FDD

Home Services · Residential Restoration

Investment min
$211K
Total: $211K–$316K
Avg gross revenue
$820K
Unit-level, 2024
Franchise fee
$59K–$65K
Per current disclosure
Royalty
3% - 10%
Locations
178
Franchising since 2002

Description

What is 1-800 Water Damage?

1-800 Water Damage stands as a leading authority in residential restoration services, specializing in water damage mitigation, mold remediation, and emergency response solutions. Since 1988, they have built a reputation for excellence in helping homeowners recover from unexpected water-related disasters with speed, professionalism, and expertise.

What sets 1-800 Water Damage apart is their commitment to 24/7 emergency response and their comprehensive approach to restoration. Their certified technicians arrive equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced technology to assess damage, implement immediate solutions, and prevent secondary issues like mold growth. The company's proven track record is evidenced by countless positive reviews highlighting their quick response times, exceptional customer service, and thorough attention to detail.

The franchise operates with a customer-first mindset, providing clear communication throughout the restoration process and working seamlessly with insurance companies to simplify claims. Their services extend beyond just water extraction to include complete structural drying, dehumidification, odor removal, and full restoration services. Each franchise location is locally owned and operated, combining the resources and training of a national brand with personalized, community-focused service.

For entrepreneurs interested in the restoration industry, 1-800 Water Damage offers a proven business model with comprehensive training, ongoing support, and access to industry-leading technology and techniques. The brand's strong reputation and established presence in the growing property restoration sector make it an attractive opportunity for those looking to build a successful service-based business while making a meaningful impact in their community.
  • IICRC-Certified National Emergency Response Network
  • 35+ Years of Proven Industry Leadership
  • Strong Insurance Company Relationships Established
  • Comprehensive Training and Support System

Location Analysis

Where 1-800 Water Damage wins

1-800 Water Damage demonstrates strong market presence across multiple states with widespread coverage, showing strategic concentration in diverse geographic regions. The franchise maintains significant presence in key markets including the Southeast, Northeast, and Southwest regions, with notable representation in the Great Lakes area and along the West Coast, suggesting successful adaptation to varied market conditions and regulatory environments. The franchise maintains an impressive average rating across thousands of customer reviews, indicating consistent service quality across regions.

The franchise's distribution pattern reveals a focus on populous states with high property values and frequent weather-related incidents, positioning it well within the residential restoration market. While established in many major markets, significant expansion opportunities exist in several currently unserved states, particularly in weather-prone regions. The balanced distribution between coastal and inland locations suggests a versatile business model adaptable to different climate-related challenges.

Ideal locations for new franchises typically include areas with: high homeownership rates, median household incomes above $75,000, aging housing stock, and regions prone to water-related incidents. The franchise shows particular strength in markets with seasonal weather extremes, suggesting these factors should be primary considerations for new location selection. Prospective franchisees should focus on underserved metropolitan areas with these characteristics, particularly in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Total US locations
178
Franchise units
178
Corporate locations
0
Avg. sq. footage
N/A

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Financial Analysis

The numbers behind 1-800 Water Damage

Avg gross revenue$820,477
Investment range$210,903 – $316,398
Investment midpoint$263,651
Brand fund2%
Royalty3% - 10%
Franchise fee$59,000–$64,950
Min. net worth
Min. liquid capital
1-800 Water Damage presents a compelling investment opportunity in the growing residential restoration sector. The initial investment range of $210,903 - $316,398 aligns closely with sub-sector averages ($157,242 - $319,094), suggesting competitive market positioning. While the average gross revenue of $820,477 falls slightly below the sub-sector average of $917,951, the brand's specialized focus on water damage restoration and emergency services provides a clear market niche.

The franchise's network of 178 units demonstrates proven scalability, while the 35-year operating history since 1988 indicates strong brand stability. The investment includes comprehensive training, equipment, and territory rights, with potential ROI typically achievable within 24-36 months based on industry standards.

Key success factors include location selection in flood-prone or high-precipitation areas, strong insurance industry relationships, and 24/7 emergency response capabilities. The IICRC certification requirement ensures service quality but adds to operational costs. Market dynamics favor this sector due to increasing extreme weather events and aging infrastructure.

Ideal investors should have $75,000-100,000 in liquid capital, strong project management skills, and comfort with emergency response operations. The brand's nationwide presence and established systems provide significant competitive advantages, though seasonal revenue fluctuations and high insurance costs should be considered in financial planning.
Did you know? Did you know that starting a 1-800 Water Damage franchise - which specializes in emergency water damage restoration and cleanup services - requires a total investment between $210,903 and $316,398, covering everything from your franchise fee and specialized equipment to vehicle wraps and initial marketing to help you become the go-to water damage hero in your community?

Financing partners

Vetted partners, tailored to franchisees

Your Franzy advisor can connect you with these partners later in the process — competitive rates, specialized in franchise financing.

FranFund

Lender

CRF USA

Nonprofit SBA lender; provides financing for franchise acquisitions, startups, and expansion.

Lender

First Bank of the Lake

Lender

Pension Pros

Lender

FDD Item 7

Initial investment range

$211K–$316K
Most common
$210,903
Minimum
$263,651
Midpoint
$316,398
Maximum

Per FDD Item 7, total initial investment ranges from $210,903 to $316,398. The midpoint $263,651 is what most franchisees report at signing — financing typically reduces cash-at-close by 80–90%. Knowing the investment range helps you plan confidently and ensure you're fully prepared to make the leap.

FDD Item 19

Average gross sales

$1M$800K$600K$400K$200KN/A
$585K
$638K
$820K
2022
2023
2024
Avg
$681K
YOY change (2023 -> 2024)
+29%

According to Item 19 of the Franchise Disclosure Document, 1-800 Water Damage has an average gross revenue of $820K. (Note: This information is based on the latest FDD in our records. Please review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) and confirm this information directly with the brand. We make no claims of accuracy for the information presented.)

Growth over time

Franchise footprint

+7% YoY
20016012080400
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
178 units open as of 2024 FDD+11 in last 12 mo

2024 Franchise Disclosure

FDD documents

Below are items 2, 3, 4, 7, 11 and 19 for 1-800 Water Damage's 2024 FDD. The complete FDD is delivered to you directly by the franchisor, per the FTC Franchise Rule.

Estimated initial investment
FDD Item 7 · PDF
Financial performance representations
FDD Item 19 · PDF
Members-only items
Executive team
FDD Item 2 · PDF
Litigation
FDD Item 3 · PDF
Bankruptcy
FDD Item 4 · PDF
Franchisor assistance
FDD Item 11 · PDF
Members only
Unlock the 2024 FDD

Connect to download Items 2, 3, 4, and 11 — direct from the franchisor.

Buyer FAQs

Frequently asked questions

The initial investment for a 1-800 Water Damage franchise typically ranges between $210,903.00 and $316,398.00. This includes the franchise fee, equipment, real estate, and other startup costs. To get a detailed breakdown and better understand the financial requirements, we recommend scheduling a call with the Franzy team. We'll walk you through the specifics and answer any questions you might have. For more detailed information, refer to the financial sections of the FDD.

Disclaimer. The information provided on this page is based on the latest Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) that is publicly available and that we have on record, which was issued in 2024. This information is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal, financial, or business advice. We make no guarantees or claims regarding the completeness or accuracy. For the most current and detailed information, we recommend consulting the franchisor directly for the most recent FDD and regarding any questions that you may have about the information provided.

1-800 Water Damage
1-800 Water Damage
$820K avg revenue · 178+ US franchises

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