According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, more than half of all homeowners’ insurance claims nationwide are for water-related issues.

Typically, water damage can occur in one of two ways, as Ernest Hemingway famously put it, “Gradually and then suddenly.”

Residents of Upstate South Carolina are no strangers to periodic flooding from tropical storms and hurricanes that sweep through the area. However, you’re just as likely to experience water damage at some point in your homeownership from a leaky or burst pipe or a damaged appliance.

Whether you’re experiencing water damage from a slow leak in your basement or a flood that has ripped through your home, it’s important to act quickly and spot the signs of water damage before it spreads.

Our expert technicians at Palmetto State Restorations would like to share some tips to help you identify water damage and the steps to take to mitigate water damage and restore your property before catastrophic damage occurs.

Common Causes of Water Damage in South Carolina

Understanding what leads to water damage in your home or business can help you prevent it and mitigate future damage. In Upstate South Carolina, there are many common causes that our technicians respond to on a weekly basis, including:

  • Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding: Seasonal storms from tropical storms and hurricanes can quickly overwhelm drainage systems.
  • Roof Leaks: Hail and wind can damage shingles, allowing rainwater to seep in the attic and damage ceilings.
  • Plumbing Failures: Burst pipes, clogged drains, or faulty water heaters are common sources of hidden leaks that can occur behind walls and quickly build if untreated.
  • Poor Foundation Drainage: Improper grading or missing gutters can direct water toward your foundation, especially during heavy rain, which can flood your basement.
  • Humidity and Condensation: In our humid climate, trapped moisture in crawl spaces or attics can lead to long-term water damage and mold growth.

What Does Water Damage Look Like

When most people think of water damage, they think of standing water and discolored drywall. However, water damage can manifest itself in many forms, especially if it forms gradually, including:

1. Discolored or Stained Walls and Ceilings

Brown or yellow stains usually indicate a roof or plumbing leak. Pay close attention to corners and areas near plumbing fixtures.

You may even notice cracks or bubbles start to form, which could indicate significant moisture intrusion in these areas.

2. Peeling Paint or Bubbling Drywall

These are classic signs that moisture is trapped behind the surface, often from an internal leak or persistent condensation.

3. Warped or Buckled Flooring

Water beneath hardwood or laminate floors can cause them to lift or warp. Tiles may loosen, and carpets may feel spongy or smell musty.

4. Musty Odors

Even without visible damage, a persistent musty smell is often the first sign of water intrusion and mold growth, especially in basements or crawl spaces. Mold should always be inspected to determine if it is toxic and remediated if toxic mold spores are found.

5. Visible Mold

Mold growing on walls, ceilings, or even furniture is a surefire sign that water damage has already occurred and moisture remains.

6. Unexplained Increases in Your Water Bill

If your water bill suddenly spikes and you haven’t changed your usage, it may point to a hidden leak.

How Long Does Water Damage Take to Show

Water damage can manifest itself in as little as a few minutes to a couple of days, depending on the cause and extent of the damage.

Extreme cases of water damage from flooding or a burst pipe will be immediately noticeable as large pools of standing water or protruding drywall will become visible.

However, small leaks may take anywhere from a few hours to several days to show many of the signs above. Often, discoloration is the first sign, followed by a musty odor and visible mold growth in more advanced stages.

Dangers of Letting Water Damage Sit

Delaying water damage repairs — even by a few days — can drastically increase repair costs and risks to your health. In humid states like South Carolina, mold can begin forming within 24–48 hours after exposure. After just one week, the damage can extend to your property’s structure, leading to:

  • Warped framing and floors
  • Crumbling drywall
  • Rotting wood and insulation
  • Black mold growth
  • Electrical hazards

Generally, the longer you wait to repair or mitigate the issue, the more extensive and expensive the fix becomes.

What Are My Water Damage Repair Options

Water restoration and repair will depend significantly on the extent of the water damage, its cause, and the time elapsed before action is taken. Here are a few options available based on the level of water damage present in your home.

DIY Repairs

For minor water damage, such as a small leak or a damaged appliance, homeowners can mitigate and repair any issues by acting quickly. Be sure to stop the source of the leak immediately and dry the affected area thoroughly.

A large-capacity dehumidifier is recommended to dry out any joists or studs that may have been affected by the moisture intrusion.

Hiring a Contractor

Once the area is dry, you will need to remove and replace any building materials that the water has damaged. In many cases, porous materials, such as unfinished wood should be replaced, as well as any stained or bubbling drywall, buckling floors, or cracked joists.

In some cases, a portion of the damaged drywall or ceiling can be replaced, but in more extreme cases where the structure is no longer intact, the entire structure should be replaced.

Water Restoration Services

For moderate to severe water damage, hiring water restoration services is necessary. This includes instances of flooding due to a natural disaster or burst pipe, or water damage that includes grey water or black water (i.e., contaminated water).

These companies utilize industrial products, such as circulating fans and large-capacity dehumidifiers, which can help clear any standing water and dry the affected area in a short time.

In addition to mitigating water damage to your home, a water restoration company can also prevent and reduce mold growth, as well as assist with repairs.

Insurance Coverage

For sudden and accidental water damage caused by a burst pipe, leak, or damaged appliance, you can contact your insurance carrier to cover the cost of repairs and restoration.

Water damage related to flooding or weather-related events typically requires a separate policy, such as flood insurance, to cover the costs of repairs to the dwelling and your personal property.

Fortunately, water restoration companies like Palmetto State Restorations will contact your insurance company on your behalf to file and handle a claim.

For more information about water restoration services, their costs, and how they can address water damage in your South Carolina home, contact the expert technicians at Palmetto State Restorations. We have staff on standby, ready to take your call.

FAQs

Can I clean up the water damage myself?

Minor spills may be manageable, but any leak larger than a small one should be inspected by professionals. Mold and moisture trapped behind walls require commercial-grade drying.

How long does the drying process take?

Most properties take between 3 to 5 days to dry completely, depending on the extent of the water damage and indoor humidity levels.

Is water damage covered by my insurance?

In most cases, insurance covers sudden water damage, such as a burst pipe or appliance failure. Gradual leaks or floodwater from outside typically require additional coverage.