2002
300
$150,000
$59,000
$250,000
No
1-800 Water Damage USA is a premier franchise specializing in comprehensive water and property damage restoration services. The brand prides itself on delivering rapid, reliable, and effective solutions to homeowners and businesses affected by water damage, fire, mold, and related disasters. Through a commitment to customer satisfaction, certified technicians, and cutting-edge equipment, the franchise offers unmatched service quality.
The business model focuses on emergency response and insurance-related restoration projects, creating a steady flow of clientele driven by necessity rather than discretionary spending. This recession-resistant, high-demand service is bolstered by strong partnerships with insurance companies and property managers, positioning franchisees for consistent revenue generation.
Backed by the expertise and resources of the BELFOR Franchise Group, franchise owners benefit from a strong brand identity, extensive training, and comprehensive support systems. 1-800 Water Damage is not just a service provider—it is a lifeline for customers during stressful, emergency situations, enhancing its market reputation and growth potential.
Established, Trusted Brand: Over two decades of operational success and brand recognition in the restoration industry.
Growing Market Demand: The USA experiences millions of water damage incidents annually, with increasing consumer awareness about mold and property restoration.
Diverse Revenue Streams: Includes water damage, fire and smoke restoration, mold remediation, carpet cleaning, and sewage cleanup.
Recession-Resistant Industry: Essential service with demand driven by emergencies, making it stable through economic fluctuations.
High Profitability & ROI: Franchisees benefit from insurance reimbursement models and recurring service opportunities.
Strong Corporate Support: Access to BELFOR’s global network, proven operational systems, marketing expertise, and vendor relationships.
Consumer Trends: Increasing homeownership rates and urban development spur ongoing demand for restoration services, especially in disaster-prone regions.
Scalable Business Model: Franchisees can grow by expanding service areas or adding multiple units
Established Year: 2002
Founders: Tim Fagan
Franchise Units: Over 300 locations nationwide
Company History & Ownership:
1-800 Water Damage USA was founded in 2002 by Tim Fagan with a vision to provide fast, reliable, and professional water damage restoration services. Since its inception, the brand has grown exponentially, becoming one of the most recognized names in the disaster restoration industry. In 2015, the franchise was acquired by the BELFOR Franchise Group, a global leader in property restoration and disaster recovery. This acquisition further strengthened the brand’s capabilities and expanded its footprint across the United States.
Today, 1-800 Water Damage operates over 300 franchise units serving both residential and commercial customers. The franchise is firmly established in the water damage restoration and disaster recovery industry, which includes services such as mold remediation, fire and smoke damage restoration, sewage cleanup, and carpet cleaning. The company’s reputation for fast emergency response and quality workmanship positions it as a trusted leader in the property restoration sector.
The brand's presence is primarily focused in the USA, with continued growth plans to deepen market penetration in urban and disaster-prone regions. The industry remains essential as natural disasters and infrastructure failures continue to create high demand for restoration services nationwide.
Franchisees receive extensive support from day one:
Pre-Launch Support: Site selection guidance, business setup assistance, equipment sourcing, licensing, and initial inventory planning.
Operational Training: 2–3 weeks of hands-on technical training at the company’s facility, covering restoration techniques, safety protocols, and customer service best practices.
Marketing Support: Digital marketing campaigns, SEO optimization, social media branding, print materials, and participation in local community events.
Ongoing Support: Field support visits, dedicated franchise business coaches, access to BELFOR’s nationwide network, and continuous skill development workshops.
Technology Support: Proprietary business management software to streamline scheduling, invoicing, and insurance claims processing.
The ideal 1-800 WATER DAMAGE franchise owner is:
Entrepreneurial: Has a strong desire to build and manage a service-driven business.
Customer-Focused: Passionate about helping people during emergencies.
Business-Minded: Experience in management, sales, or operations is a plus, but not mandatory.
Financially Prepared: Capable of meeting the initial investment requirements.
Location Advantage: Prefers operating in areas prone to flooding, storms, or urban regions with high service demand.
Total Investment Range: $150,000 – $250,000 USD
Minimum Investment Required: $150,000 USD
Franchise Fee: $59,000 USD
Infrastructure & Equipment Cost: $60,000 – $90,000 USD
Marketing Budget: $5,000 – $10,000 USD (initial launch)
Working Capital Requirement: $25,000 – $50,000 USD
Royalty Fees: 6% of gross sales
Expected ROI: 18–24 months (depending on market conditions)
Potential Revenue Streams:
Water Damage Restoration
Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration
Mold Remediation
Sewage Cleanup
Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Insurance Claim Projects
