Who to Call for a Water Leak in Your Wall

A water damage restoration specialist is best, with plumbers as a backup

pieces of wall falling off due to water damage
Photo: aleksandar29 / Adobe Stock Photography
pieces of wall falling off due to water damage
Photo: aleksandar29 / Adobe Stock Photography
Highlights
  • Wall leaks require fast professional help to stop the source, dry affected areas, and restore damaged materials.

  • Additional costs often include drywall repair, materials disposal, and build-back after mitigation is complete.

  • Minor plumbing fixes average $275; add $150 to $250 for drywall repair; window leaks may require an $800 window replacement plus repairs.

  • Costs vary by leak source, extent of damage, build-back needs, emergency response requirements, and insurance involvement.

  • Hiring a restoration specialist speeds response, streamlines insurance coordination, and reduces delays by handling mitigation and rebuild.

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This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

If you are searching for who to call for a water leak in the wall, act quickly and contact a pro to limit damage. A water damage restoration specialist is the best choice, as they handle emergencies, repair the source, dry and remove damage, and perform build-back. Plumbers handle pipe leaks, while leak detection companies pinpoint hidden leaks. Restoration firms often prioritize same-day service and can coordinate with insurance.

Benefits of Hiring a Water Damage Restoration Specialist to Fix a Water Leak in Your Wall

Restoration specialists are the best answer to who to call for water leak in wall because they manage the entire emergency. They respond faster than other pros, stop the leak, remove standing water, dry the area, and handle build-back. They can address plumbing, roof, or window-related sources and often work with insurers on documentation to help move claims forward.

  • Rapid, emergency-focused scheduling to limit damage

  • One company from mitigation through build-back

  • Repairs drywall, insulation, and flooring after drying

  • Addresses window or roof-related leak sources

  • Removes damaged materials to prevent further issues

  • Coordinates with insurers on required documentation

  • Minimizes disruption by consolidating project steps

  • Identifies and fixes underlying leak causes

  • Prioritizes same-day service for emergencies

  • Reduces the need to hire multiple separate pros

Can I Hire a Plumber to Fix a Water Leak in My Wall?

Plumbers are the next best option when you know the leak is in your water supply or drain lines. They repair plumbing issues, but they do not handle roof or window leaks, mold concerns, or full build-back. Emergency calls are possible, but same-day service is less likely than with restoration specialists. Leak detection companies excel at finding hidden leaks, though many do not perform repairs. A handyperson can manage minor tasks, but is not ideal for emergencies or full restoration. If you need help with a pipe leak, you might want to consider a local plumber to ensure the job is done quickly and correctly.

How Do Water Damage Restoration Specialists Fix Water Leaks in Walls?

Restoration specialists follow a clear sequence to resolve wall leaks:

  1.  Stop the leak by repairing a pipe, replacing a window, or fixing gutters spilling behind the fascia.

  2. Remove standing water and thoroughly dry the affected area.

  3. Remove damaged materials to prevent ongoing issues.

  4. Repair or replace surrounding areas to restore the space.

Homeowner tip: Check for cool spots, use a moisture meter costing about $20 to $50, or press a paper towel to spot dampness.

How Much Does Repairing a Water Leak Cost?

Water damage restoration averages $3,800, with most homeowners paying $1,350 to $6,300 depending on cause and damage extent. A minor plumbing leak averages $275 to repair, with an additional $150 to $250 for drywall work. A window leak requiring full replacement averages $800, plus any extra repairs. Costs depend on the leak source, severity, and how much build-back is needed after mitigation.

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