Water damage in Cape Coral
Water damage in Cape Coral ranges from a leaking supply line to a house filled with storm surge. In this humidity, the first two days after water gets in decide how much damage follows.
Storm surge
During Hurricane Ian, the National Hurricane Center found maximum storm surge inundation of 6 to 9 feet above ground in Pine Island, Cape Coral and other communities along the mouth of the Caloosahatchee, and USGS water level sensors in Matlacha and Cape Coral were lost or destroyed. Ian made landfall on Cayo Costa on September 28, 2022 with estimated maximum winds of about 150 mph. Surge water is salt water mixed with sewage, sand and debris. Porous materials it touched, such as drywall, insulation, carpet and particleboard cabinets, usually have to be removed. Framing and slabs need cleaning and drying before rebuilding.
Wind-driven rain
NOAA's engineering weather data for Fort Myers lists a 100-year rainfall rate of 4.5 inches per hour. In storms, wind drives rain through damaged roofs, windows, soffits and sliding doors. Tarp and board openings as quickly as you safely can to stop more water from entering.
Humidity
NOAA counts about 3,353 hours a year at Fort Myers with the wet-bulb temperature above 73°F. Wet materials don't dry on their own in that air, and mold can start within a day or two. A restoration company should bring dehumidifiers and air movers and measure moisture daily.
What a restoration company should do
Ask how soon they can arrive and start removing water. Ask what they'll remove and why, how they'll measure moisture in walls, floors and framing, and how they'll document drying with readings and photos. Ask how they'll decide when the house is dry enough to rebuild.
Clean and dirty water
Water from a supply line starts clean. Surge, flood water and sewer backups are contaminated, and the work must include cleaning and disinfection. Ask how the company classifies your water and what that means for the scope.
Insurance
Flood damage is usually covered by flood insurance, not a standard homeowner policy; wind-driven rain may fall under the homeowner policy. Call your insurers early, and photograph everything before work starts. Read any form before signing; an assignment of benefits gives the contractor your claim. You can choose your own company.
Before you hire
Get the estimate in writing and ask how billing works. Ask whether they also rebuild, and if so, look up their license with the Florida DBPR.