Flood Damage Cleanup

Flood Damage Cleanup

A successful flood damage cleanup shouldn’t simply leave your property looking dry. It should understand the extent of the loss, account for contamination, remove excess water, dry affected materials, and verify the results.

Because MSI has specialized in mold inspection and remediation since 1998, we don’t guess when your building is dry. We measure it.

Contact Our Certified Experts

Trust Our 5-Star Rating

Mold Solutions & Inspections place picture
5.0
Based on 160 reviews
John Runyen profile picture
John Runyen
3 months ago
These guys are great. Joe went above and beyond with talking through my specific situation. Mike did the actual mold inspection and he was great too - prompt, knowledgeable, and fast. I had the report in my inbox 2 days later. Highly recommend
Mathy Stanislaus profile picture
Mathy Stanislaus
4 months ago
Joe and his team were great to work with - Joe responded to all my questions - his team was very organized and diligent and did a great job addressing my mold issues. They removed wallboard and vanity. Joe also recommended a very good person to handle the replacement for the wallboard
How could I possibly express in words my gratitude to Joe, Mike and the entire team at MSI?! When to our horror, water damage brought mold to our home, Joe and the team at MSI came highly recommended from a neighbor and I will be forever grateful. From the first phone call until the insurance claim was processed and the remediation paid for, Joe was kind, informative, and incredibly helpful at connecting us to the other resources (a public adjuster, duct cleaning, etc.) we would need to take care of our home. They got to us quickly and our job was quite extensive. The team was highly professional, communicative, and efficient. They took care of the mold and kept us safe and informed every step of the way. Should you ever need mold remediation work done, MSI is the only team I would call!
Natalie Campanile profile picture
Natalie Campanile
5 months ago
I recently worked with Mold Solutions and Inspections following a water loss insurance claim, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. Joe was incredibly helpful, taking the time to explain every step of the process and providing support from start to finish. The entire team was punctual, professional, respectful, and kept the work area clean throughout the project. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer service made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I've already recommended them to a coworker and would highly recommend them to anyone dealing with a water loss or insurance claim.
Amanda Sternberg profile picture
Amanda Sternberg
5 months ago
Joe and his team at MSI were fantastic! They helped us clear up a water damage issue in our basement in Point Breeze. The guys who came buy were efficient and professional. Joe himself has been great, even going above and beyond to provide guidance and recommendations for next steps after his job was done. I highly recommend this company!
Stephanie Wolff profile picture
Stephanie Wolff
6 months ago
We’ve lived in our home for almost 20 years and have (unfortunately) needed MSI’s services four different times. Each time, Joe and his team have been outstanding. From the first phone call to the final follow‑up, every step is handled with genuine friendliness and true professionalism. Joe even remembered us after more than a decade between jobs.

In a time when it can be hard to get service providers to even call you back, MSI is a real standout. No one wants to deal with water damage or mold, but knowing this team is out there doing high‑quality, reliable work has been a game changer for us as homeowners.
Khyra Lammers profile picture
Khyra Lammers
7 months ago
Fast, Reliable and Straight to the Point! I called for a mold inspection quote and within minutes, Joe returned my call and scheduled my inspection. Mike was able to come out the next day, and the tests took no time at all. After the tests, Joe reviewed the results with me and clearly answered my questions about them. I appreciate their professionalism, and I highly recommend MSI if you need a mold inspection.
Joe and his team were excellent. Immediately responded and started the job within 24 hours. Extremely communicatative; explained everything in detail.
Scott Wushesnky profile picture
Scott Wushesnky
9 months ago
MSI is excellent! They were professional, reliable, and incredibly supportive. They did a phenomenal job taking care of my home and making sure that I was involved and understood the process. Highly recommend!
Billy Hayes profile picture
Billy Hayes
10 months ago
These guys have 5 stars for a reason. We had an issue with bathroom mold that needed to be treated and I had to cancel after setting a date. Joe was understanding, communicative, and helpful along the way. Once we rescheduled, the team was full of professionals that diligently remediated the affected area and cleaned up everything nicer than when they first arrived. I highly recommend them to anyone and everyone.
Lee Klein profile picture
Lee Klein
10 months ago
Joe arrived on time, entertained me with tales of traditional deep South Philly, where up means down (south) and down means up (north) -- or maybe vice versa? -- and educated me unsurprisingly on mold (you can't just buy the machine that tests for it, for example, you need certification). And he taught me something I will never forget about footwear (won't share this important and memorable lesson here, however). Generally, a pleasant, efficient process to ensure that some roof leak damage hadn't developed into something nasty/pathological. He called to discuss the results he shared via email a few days after the testing and explained everything clearly. Fully confident in his expertise -- and will call again without hesitation if it comes down to it.
Brittany Clarke profile picture
Brittany Clarke
11 months ago
Joe is the absolute best. We needed to find someone to help test for mold during our inspection process. Joe and his team provided exceptional and timely service. Joe’s candor and willingness to talk you through the issues is exactly what we needed as first time home buyers. We 100% recommend MSI.
Jacob Neumann profile picture
Jacob Neumann
11 months ago
I recently purchased by first home and discovered there was mold in the crawl space. I closed on this home Friday of one week and had roommates moving in the very next Thursday. Joe, the owner of MSI, came out on Saturday, gave me a quote, and MSI was able to start on that Monday and get the job done in time! Joe is an amazing person that carries himself in a very disciplined and professional way, and he stands behind his company's work! The crew was equally as amazing and professional. Very kind, respectful, and a thorough job done top to bottom. After the job was completed, Joe was kind enough to explain to me how to set up my dehumidifier in my crawl space so the mold has a snowball's chance in hell of coming back. MSI is an amazing company, a quality brand, and a pleasure to interact with. Should the need arise, they'll be hearing from me again for more business! Thank you MSI!
John OBrien profile picture
John OBrien
1 year ago
I can’t say enough good things about MSI and especially Joe, the owner. From the very first phone call, he was incredibly kind and understanding of my anxiety about having mold in our home with an 8-month-old baby. I reached out with a lot of questions (probably more than most!) and Joe was always patient and never made me feel like I was bothering him.

They were able to start the remediation within a week of contacting them, which gave us huge peace of mind. The team was professional, respectful of our home, and explained what they were doing each step of the way. Knowing our baby’s health and safety were a priority to them made such a difference.

Should we need further remediation, we will definitely continue using them. I’m so grateful we found MSI and would recommend them to anyone who needs mold remediation.

Flood Damage Cleanup That Goes Beyond Removing the Water

When flooding hits your property, water spreads under flooring, behind walls, into insulation, through drywall, and into structural materials. That water can also bring contamination that completely changes how the affected materials must be handled.

That’s why Mold Solutions & Inspections (MSI) tackles flood damage cleanup differently.

We don’t just pump out the visible water and set up fans. Our IICRC-certified technicians track where the water traveled, identify every affected material, determine whether contamination is a concern, and hunt down hidden moisture that extraction leaves behind.

Then we measure and document the drying process, every step of the way.

Mold Solutions & Inspections_Philadelphia, PA_Water leaks-5
Mold solution image

Your Property Flooded. What Should Happen Next?

Flood damage almost always runs deeper than it looks.

Water moves. Fast.

It travels underneath finished flooring, wicks upward through drywall, penetrates subfloors, fills wall cavities, and spreads into adjoining rooms.

That visible flood line? It rarely defines the real damage.

Professional flood damage cleanup has to answer four critical questions:

Those questions drive everything MSI does. Call us now, and we’ll start answering them today.

The MSI Difference: Follow the Water

Most flood cleanup companies build their whole pitch around pumps, extraction gear, and fans.

Those tools matter. But equipment isn’t a strategy.

MSI starts by understanding the water event itself and mapping its full impact on your property.

Our technicians evaluate every affected area, take moisture readings, extract the water, establish the right drying conditions, monitor progress, and adjust the strategy the moment the data tells us to.

And because MSI has specialized in mold inspection and remediation since 1998, we bring a perspective most flood crews simply don’t have: we know exactly what overlooked moisture becomes.

That experience makes finding and properly addressing moisture, not just removing the water you can see, our top priority.

damage measurement image

Our Flood Damage Cleanup Process

Evaluate the Source and Extent of the Flood

Not every water loss should be treated the same way.

A broken clean-water supply line is a completely different situation from groundwater flooding a basement or contaminated water backing up through a drain.

MSI evaluates the source, the affected areas, the materials involved, and any potential contamination before we choose the right cleanup approach. That’s how you avoid costly mistakes.

Determine Where the Water Traveled

The wettest-looking area is rarely the only wet area.

Water migrates into:

  • Drywall
  • Baseboards
  • Wall cavities
  • Insulation
  • Carpeting and padding
  • Hardwood flooring
  • Subflooring
  • Cabinets
  • Ceilings
  • Structural materials

MSI uses professional moisture-detection equipment to map the true extent of the water’s path. If we don’t know where the water went, we can’t know what needs to be dried. So we find it.

Extract Standing Water

Once we’ve evaluated the conditions, our commercial extraction equipment pulls out standing and excess water fast.

Efficient extraction slashes the amount of moisture we’ll later remove through evaporation and dehumidification, speeding up the entire job.

But extraction is only the beginning. A floor can look dry while the materials beneath it stay soaked.

Address Contaminated Materials

Floodwater isn’t always clean water.

Water from outdoors, groundwater, sewage-related events, or other contaminated sources demands extra precautions and a different restoration approach. Some porous materials simply can’t be dried and safely kept.

MSI evaluates the water source and the affected materials to decide what can be dried and saved, and what has to go.

We don’t assume everything wet should be saved, and we don’t assume everything wet should be demolished. We base the call on the real conditions of your loss.

Clean and Treat Affected Areas

When conditions call for it, we clean and treat affected surfaces and areas as part of the cleanup.

The exact procedure depends on the type of water, the materials involved, and the level of contamination.

This is one more reason professional evaluation matters: flood cleanup is never one-size-fits-all.

Begin Structural Drying

Once excess water is gone and cleanup is complete, MSI establishes controlled drying conditions.

Commercial air movers drive evaporation while professional dehumidifiers strip moisture from the air.

But we don’t just leave equipment running and assume the structure is drying. We prove it.

Measure the Drying Progress

Here’s where MSI’s process separates from the pack.

We take moisture and atmospheric readings to confirm affected materials are actually responding to the drying strategy.

When progress stalls, we investigate why. Then we act:

  • Equipment placement may need adjusting
  • Airflow may need to change
  • Additional wet materials may need to be found
  • The drying environment may need to be reworked

Our decisions follow the moisture data, never an arbitrary number of drying days.

Verify & Document

A property should never be called dry just because the floor looks dry or the equipment has been running a few days.

MSI uses moisture measurements to confirm drying progress and pinpoint exactly when your property hits proper drying goals.

We back it all up with photos, moisture data, and drying logs, giving you a clear record of everything that happened on your project. Don’t guess whether your property is dry. Know.

Water damage restoration service

Flood Damage Can Hide Below the Surface

Picture two flooded basements.

In both, the standing water has been extracted. Both floors now look dry.

But in one, moisture is still trapped behind the finished walls and beneath the flooring.

Visually, the rooms look identical. From a moisture standpoint, they’re worlds apart, and one of them is heading straight toward rot and mold.

That’s why MSI never uses appearance alone to decide when flood cleanup is complete. We look beyond the surface, where the real damage hides.

Why MSI's Mold Experience Matters After Flooding

MSI brings specialized expertise in both water damage and mold. That combination is powerful.

Flood damage is a moisture problem. When excess moisture lingers in vulnerable materials, conditions turn favorable for microbial growth fast.

Our mold background sharpens every question we ask during cleanup:

We don’t treat flood cleanup and mold prevention as separate problems. We understand the connection: Control the moisture today to stop a bigger problem tomorrow.

Can Flood-Damaged Materials Be Saved?

Often, yes. The answer depends on factors like:

Nonporous materials respond differently from highly porous ones. And certain materials exposed to contaminated floodwater must be removed rather than dried in place.

MSI evaluates every one of these factors before recommending a course of action.

Our goal isn’t maximum demolition. It’s the right response to your actual conditions, so you save what can be saved and remove only what must go.

Residential Flood Damage Cleanup

Flooding in a home strikes from many directions:

MSI delivers residential flood damage cleanup, from emergency water removal through moisture detection, cleanup, structural drying, and full documentation.

Whether the flood hits one room or your entire home, our objective stays the same: Understand the loss before deciding how to restore it.

Commercial Flood Damage Cleanup

For businesses and managed properties, flood damage hits twice: property damage and operational disruption. Every hour offline costs you.

MSI provides fast flood damage cleanup for commercial and multifamily properties, including:

We give owners and managers straight answers on what was affected, what’s being dried, what may need removal, and how the drying is progressing.

Clear information means better decisions during an already disruptive event, and a faster path back to business.

Flood Damage & Insurance Claims

If your flood damage involves an insurance claim, documentation is everything.

MSI documents affected areas and mitigation work with photos, moisture readings, drying data, and detailed project records.

Insurance coverage depends on the source of the water and your specific policy. Coverage for sudden internal water damage, for example, can differ dramatically from coverage for groundwater or surface flooding.

MSI handles the mitigation and the documentation. Your insurance carrier determines coverage under your policy. And don’t wait on your insurer to start mitigation, acting fast protects both your property and your claim.

Flood Damage Cleanup FAQs

What should I do immediately after flooding?

Prioritize safety. Stay out of areas where standing water may create electrical, structural, or contamination hazards. If it’s safe, stop the water source and call a professional water-damage company right away.

Water extraction removes standing and excess water. Flood damage cleanup goes further, evaluating contamination, removing affected materials, cleaning, structural drying, moisture monitoring, and documentation.

It depends on the source. Water from outdoors, groundwater, sewage, or other unsanitary sources brings very different contamination concerns than a clean-water plumbing failure.

Sometimes. It depends on the water source, contamination, saturation, condition of the material, and whether it can be effectively dried.

Not necessarily. MSI evaluates the flooring material, water source, degree of saturation, underlying materials, and drying potential before deciding.

There’s no universal timeline. The size of the loss, affected materials, contamination, amount of water, and drying conditions all shape the duration. That’s why we rely on moisture data, not guesswork.

We use moisture measurements and monitoring, never just appearance or touch.

Yes. Lingering moisture creates conditions favorable to microbial growth. Prompt water removal, proper cleanup, and verified drying cut that risk by limiting moisture exposure.

Yes. MSI’s expertise includes mold inspection and remediation, so we can address moisture and mold together as part of the broader project when needed.

The Water Is Gone. But Is the Moisture Gone?

That’s the question that matters after a flood.

A successful flood cleanup shouldn’t just leave your property looking dry. It should address the source, map the full extent of the loss, account for contamination, remove the excess water, dry the affected materials, and verify the results.

That’s exactly how MSI handles flood damage.

Follow the water. Measure the moisture. Verify the dry.
Mold Solutions & Inspections (MSI)
Don't Settle for Image

Flooded Property? Call MSI Now.

Every hour water sits in your property, it spreads further into your floors, walls, and structure. Don’t give it the chance.

Sewage Backup Cleanup

24/7 Sewage Backup Cleanup

A sewage backup is not a normal water loss. Our water extraction removes sewage, and our mitigation process addresses what the sewage touched.

Because MSI has specialized in mold inspection and remediation since 1998, we don’t guess when your building is dry. We measure it.

Contact Our Certified Experts

Trust Our 5-Star Rating

Mold Solutions & Inspections place picture
5.0
Based on 160 reviews
John Runyen profile picture
John Runyen
3 months ago
These guys are great. Joe went above and beyond with talking through my specific situation. Mike did the actual mold inspection and he was great too - prompt, knowledgeable, and fast. I had the report in my inbox 2 days later. Highly recommend
Mathy Stanislaus profile picture
Mathy Stanislaus
4 months ago
Joe and his team were great to work with - Joe responded to all my questions - his team was very organized and diligent and did a great job addressing my mold issues. They removed wallboard and vanity. Joe also recommended a very good person to handle the replacement for the wallboard
How could I possibly express in words my gratitude to Joe, Mike and the entire team at MSI?! When to our horror, water damage brought mold to our home, Joe and the team at MSI came highly recommended from a neighbor and I will be forever grateful. From the first phone call until the insurance claim was processed and the remediation paid for, Joe was kind, informative, and incredibly helpful at connecting us to the other resources (a public adjuster, duct cleaning, etc.) we would need to take care of our home. They got to us quickly and our job was quite extensive. The team was highly professional, communicative, and efficient. They took care of the mold and kept us safe and informed every step of the way. Should you ever need mold remediation work done, MSI is the only team I would call!
Natalie Campanile profile picture
Natalie Campanile
5 months ago
I recently worked with Mold Solutions and Inspections following a water loss insurance claim, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. Joe was incredibly helpful, taking the time to explain every step of the process and providing support from start to finish. The entire team was punctual, professional, respectful, and kept the work area clean throughout the project. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer service made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I've already recommended them to a coworker and would highly recommend them to anyone dealing with a water loss or insurance claim.
Amanda Sternberg profile picture
Amanda Sternberg
5 months ago
Joe and his team at MSI were fantastic! They helped us clear up a water damage issue in our basement in Point Breeze. The guys who came buy were efficient and professional. Joe himself has been great, even going above and beyond to provide guidance and recommendations for next steps after his job was done. I highly recommend this company!
Stephanie Wolff profile picture
Stephanie Wolff
6 months ago
We’ve lived in our home for almost 20 years and have (unfortunately) needed MSI’s services four different times. Each time, Joe and his team have been outstanding. From the first phone call to the final follow‑up, every step is handled with genuine friendliness and true professionalism. Joe even remembered us after more than a decade between jobs.

In a time when it can be hard to get service providers to even call you back, MSI is a real standout. No one wants to deal with water damage or mold, but knowing this team is out there doing high‑quality, reliable work has been a game changer for us as homeowners.
Khyra Lammers profile picture
Khyra Lammers
7 months ago
Fast, Reliable and Straight to the Point! I called for a mold inspection quote and within minutes, Joe returned my call and scheduled my inspection. Mike was able to come out the next day, and the tests took no time at all. After the tests, Joe reviewed the results with me and clearly answered my questions about them. I appreciate their professionalism, and I highly recommend MSI if you need a mold inspection.
Joe and his team were excellent. Immediately responded and started the job within 24 hours. Extremely communicatative; explained everything in detail.
Scott Wushesnky profile picture
Scott Wushesnky
9 months ago
MSI is excellent! They were professional, reliable, and incredibly supportive. They did a phenomenal job taking care of my home and making sure that I was involved and understood the process. Highly recommend!
Billy Hayes profile picture
Billy Hayes
10 months ago
These guys have 5 stars for a reason. We had an issue with bathroom mold that needed to be treated and I had to cancel after setting a date. Joe was understanding, communicative, and helpful along the way. Once we rescheduled, the team was full of professionals that diligently remediated the affected area and cleaned up everything nicer than when they first arrived. I highly recommend them to anyone and everyone.
Lee Klein profile picture
Lee Klein
10 months ago
Joe arrived on time, entertained me with tales of traditional deep South Philly, where up means down (south) and down means up (north) -- or maybe vice versa? -- and educated me unsurprisingly on mold (you can't just buy the machine that tests for it, for example, you need certification). And he taught me something I will never forget about footwear (won't share this important and memorable lesson here, however). Generally, a pleasant, efficient process to ensure that some roof leak damage hadn't developed into something nasty/pathological. He called to discuss the results he shared via email a few days after the testing and explained everything clearly. Fully confident in his expertise -- and will call again without hesitation if it comes down to it.
Brittany Clarke profile picture
Brittany Clarke
11 months ago
Joe is the absolute best. We needed to find someone to help test for mold during our inspection process. Joe and his team provided exceptional and timely service. Joe’s candor and willingness to talk you through the issues is exactly what we needed as first time home buyers. We 100% recommend MSI.
Jacob Neumann profile picture
Jacob Neumann
11 months ago
I recently purchased by first home and discovered there was mold in the crawl space. I closed on this home Friday of one week and had roommates moving in the very next Thursday. Joe, the owner of MSI, came out on Saturday, gave me a quote, and MSI was able to start on that Monday and get the job done in time! Joe is an amazing person that carries himself in a very disciplined and professional way, and he stands behind his company's work! The crew was equally as amazing and professional. Very kind, respectful, and a thorough job done top to bottom. After the job was completed, Joe was kind enough to explain to me how to set up my dehumidifier in my crawl space so the mold has a snowball's chance in hell of coming back. MSI is an amazing company, a quality brand, and a pleasure to interact with. Should the need arise, they'll be hearing from me again for more business! Thank you MSI!
John OBrien profile picture
John OBrien
1 year ago
I can’t say enough good things about MSI and especially Joe, the owner. From the very first phone call, he was incredibly kind and understanding of my anxiety about having mold in our home with an 8-month-old baby. I reached out with a lot of questions (probably more than most!) and Joe was always patient and never made me feel like I was bothering him.

They were able to start the remediation within a week of contacting them, which gave us huge peace of mind. The team was professional, respectful of our home, and explained what they were doing each step of the way. Knowing our baby’s health and safety were a priority to them made such a difference.

Should we need further remediation, we will definitely continue using them. I’m so grateful we found MSI and would recommend them to anyone who needs mold remediation.

Sewage Backup Cleanup: Remove the Contamination, Not Just the Water

A sewage backup is not a normal water loss. Treat it like one, and you put your property and your health at risk.

When contaminated water floods a basement, bathroom, utility room, or commercial space, the goal is never just to suck it up and dry the floor. The affected area has to be evaluated for contamination, porous materials, hidden moisture, and the very real chance that contaminants have already spread beyond the visible backup.

Mold Solutions & Inspections (MSI) treats sewage backup cleanup as a contamination-control project first, and a drying project second.

Our IICRC-certified technicians pinpoint affected areas, remove contaminated water and materials when needed, clean affected surfaces, establish controlled drying conditions, and verify moisture levels before we ever call the job done.

Extraction removes the sewage. Proper mitigation addresses everything the sewage touched.

Mold Solutions & Inspections_Philadelphia, PA_Water leaks-7

Sewage Backed Up? Stay Out of the Affected Area.

Sewage-contaminated water is commonly classified as Category 3 water, meaning it can carry harmful contaminants and demands professional handling. Act fast, but act safely.

Keep People and Pets Away

01

Avoid direct contact with contaminated water and any materials it touched. Keep children and pets well clear of the affected area.

Don't Use Household Fans

02

Uncontrolled airflow can spread contamination from the affected area into clean parts of your property. Leave the fans off.

Don't Try to Save Porous Materials on Your Own

03

Carpet, padding, drywall, and insulation soak up contaminated water fast. Don’t attempt to rescue them without a professional evaluation.

Stop Using Plumbing if the Backup Is Active

04

Every flush, sink, shower, or running appliance can make a sewer or drain backup worse. Stop using your plumbing until the source is resolved.

Call MSI

05

We’ll evaluate the affected area and start professional sewage backup cleanup fast, before contamination spreads further.

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The MSI Difference: Contamination Changes Everything

A burst pipe and a sewage backup can both leave water on your floor. But they are worlds apart as restoration problems.

With sewage, the questions get serious:

That’s why MSI never treats sewage cleanup as ordinary water extraction. Our strategy follows the contamination, not just the puddle.

Our Sewage Backup Cleanup Process

Assess the Source and Affected Area

First, we determine the nature and extent of the sewage event. Common causes include:

  • Main sewer backups
  • Floor drain backups
  • Toilet overflows involving contaminated water
  • Septic system failures
  • Drain-line backups
  • Sewage entering through basement plumbing
  • Municipal sewer problems

MSI traces where the water traveled and identifies every material it contacted.

Establish Contamination Control

When contaminated water is present, controlling the affected area is critical. Depending on the conditions, we isolate or contain the work zone to stop contamination from reaching clean areas.

This is exactly where DIY cleanup goes wrong. Move contaminated air, water, or materials through your property, and you make the affected area bigger.

Remove Sewage and Standing Water

Our commercial extraction equipment removes contaminated water where appropriate. But extraction is only the first physical step. The bigger question is what the sewage contacted before we pulled it out.

Identify Materials That Cannot Be Retained

Porous materials absorb contaminated water fast. Depending on the loss, affected materials may include:

  • Carpet
  • Carpet padding
  • Drywall
  • Insulation
  • Upholstered materials
  • Certain flooring materials
  • Baseboards
  • Other porous finishes

Whether a material can stay depends on the source, the level of contamination, the degree of exposure, and whether it can be properly cleaned and restored.

Sewage cleanup isn’t about saving everything. It’s about making safe, defensible material decisions.

Clean Affected Surfaces

Once contaminated water and non-restorable materials are gone, we clean the remaining affected surfaces using procedures matched to the conditions. Professional sewage protocols emphasize cleaning and disinfection, not just drying contaminated areas.

Investigate Hidden Moisture

Sewage travels under flooring, behind baseboards, and into wall cavities, just like any other water loss. This is where our moisture-focused approach becomes essential.

We evaluate surrounding materials to determine whether contaminated moisture migrated beyond the visible area. If the surface looks clean but contaminated moisture lingers behind it, the job isn’t finished.

Establish Structural Drying

After appropriate removal and cleaning, MSI sets up controlled drying conditions for materials that can stay. We position professional air movers and dehumidification equipment based on the conditions of your project, with one goal: pull the remaining excess moisture out of the structure.

Monitor and Verify Drying

MSI never stops just because the floor feels dry. We take moisture and atmospheric readings to confirm real progress and answer:

  • Are the remaining materials actually drying?
  • Is moisture trapped in a concealed area?
  • Does the drying strategy need adjusting?
  • Have proper drying goals been reached?

Clean isn’t enough if the structure is still wet.

What Happens to Carpet After a Sewage Backup?

Carpet and padding are highly porous. When contaminated sewage saturates them, extraction or shampooing usually isn’t a safe restoration strategy.

The exact response depends on the nature and extent of contamination, but contaminated porous materials frequently have to be removed. MSI evaluates the real conditions before deciding how the affected flooring should be handled.

What About Drywall?

Drywall wicks contaminated water above the visible flood line, which means the part that looks dry may still be affected.

Depending on contamination and saturation, selective removal may be necessary to:

The visible waterline doesn’t show you where contamination stopped.

Sewage Backup in a Basement

Basements are especially vulnerable because sewer lines, floor drains, and below-grade plumbing tend to converge there. A basement sewage backup can affect:

In a finished basement, contamination can spread beneath flooring and behind wall assemblies. MSI evaluates far more than the open floor. We investigate the full path of the contaminated water.

Sewage Backup in a Basement
Clean Up

Sewage Backup in a Bathroom

A toilet overflow can range from a minor clean-water incident to a serious contaminated sewage loss, depending on what entered the water and where the backup started.

When contaminated water spreads beyond the fixture, it can reach:

MSI evaluates the actual conditions rather than assuming every toilet overflow is the same.

Sewer Backup vs. Clean-Water Loss

A broken supply line often starts as relatively clean water. A sewer backup can introduce pathogens and other contaminants. That single difference changes:

Same building. Same amount of water. Completely different mitigation problem.

Why MSI's Mold Expertise Matters After Sewage Damage

MSI brings specialized expertise in both water damage and mold inspection and remediation, and that combination is powerful after a sewage loss. Moisture can remain in concealed materials long after the contaminated water is gone.

We’re already trained to think about:

So our sewage-cleanup process doesn’t end when the visible contamination disappears. We verify the moisture conditions that remain behind.

Can I Clean Up Sewage Myself?

A very small, limited incident might look manageable, but sewage carries contamination risks a mop can’t handle. Professional help becomes essential when:

When in doubt, stay out of the water and get professional guidance.

Sewage Backup Cleanup & Insurance

Coverage varies significantly by policy. Standard property insurance often treats sewer and drain backups differently from other water losses, and a specific backup endorsement may be required.

MSI provides the applicable project documentation, including:

MSI documents the mitigation. Your insurance carrier determines coverage. And don’t wait on your insurer to start cleanup, acting fast limits contamination and protects both your property and your claim.

Sewage Backup Cleanup FAQs

Is sewage backup considered Category 3 water?

Sewage-contaminated water is commonly classified as Category 3 because it can contain harmful contaminants.

Absolutely. Avoid direct contact with contaminated water and any affected materials.

Because carpet and padding are highly porous, contaminated materials often require removal rather than cleaning, depending on the circumstances.

Sometimes. The decision depends on the extent of contamination, saturation, and whether the material can be properly restored.

Yes. Like any water loss, contaminated water migrates into concealed building materials and cavities.

No. Proper sewage backup cleanup may also require material removal, cleaning, contamination control, structural drying, and moisture verification.

There’s no universal timeline. The extent of contamination, affected materials, removal requirements, and drying conditions all shape the duration.

Yes. Lingering excess moisture creates conditions favorable to microbial growth. Proper cleanup and verified drying address the moisture side of the loss.

Yes. MSI provides full mold inspection and remediation alongside water-damage mitigation.

The Sewage Is Gone. But Is the Area Clean and Dry?

A professional sewage backup cleanup shouldn’t end when the standing water disappears. It should address:

1
Contamination
2
Affected materials
3
Cleaning
4
Hidden moisture
5
Structural drying
6
Verification

That’s the MSI approach:

Remove what can't safely stay. Clean what can. Dry what remains. Verify the results.
Don't Settle for Image

Sewage Backup?

Every hour contaminated water sits in your property, it spreads deeper into your floors, walls, and materials. Don’t give it the chance.

Keep clear of the affected area and call MSI now.

Structural Drying Service

24/7 Structural Drying Service

A room can look dry and still be wet inside the structure. MSI doesn’t stop drying because the surface looks dry—we stop when the moisture readings say it’s dry.

Because MSI has specialized in mold inspection and remediation since 1998, we don’t guess when your building is dry. We measure it.

Contact Our Certified Experts

Trust Our 5-Star Rating

Mold Solutions & Inspections place picture
5.0
Based on 160 reviews
John Runyen profile picture
John Runyen
3 months ago
These guys are great. Joe went above and beyond with talking through my specific situation. Mike did the actual mold inspection and he was great too - prompt, knowledgeable, and fast. I had the report in my inbox 2 days later. Highly recommend
Mathy Stanislaus profile picture
Mathy Stanislaus
4 months ago
Joe and his team were great to work with - Joe responded to all my questions - his team was very organized and diligent and did a great job addressing my mold issues. They removed wallboard and vanity. Joe also recommended a very good person to handle the replacement for the wallboard
How could I possibly express in words my gratitude to Joe, Mike and the entire team at MSI?! When to our horror, water damage brought mold to our home, Joe and the team at MSI came highly recommended from a neighbor and I will be forever grateful. From the first phone call until the insurance claim was processed and the remediation paid for, Joe was kind, informative, and incredibly helpful at connecting us to the other resources (a public adjuster, duct cleaning, etc.) we would need to take care of our home. They got to us quickly and our job was quite extensive. The team was highly professional, communicative, and efficient. They took care of the mold and kept us safe and informed every step of the way. Should you ever need mold remediation work done, MSI is the only team I would call!
Natalie Campanile profile picture
Natalie Campanile
5 months ago
I recently worked with Mold Solutions and Inspections following a water loss insurance claim, and I couldn't be more pleased with the experience. Joe was incredibly helpful, taking the time to explain every step of the process and providing support from start to finish. The entire team was punctual, professional, respectful, and kept the work area clean throughout the project. Their attention to detail and commitment to customer service made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. I've already recommended them to a coworker and would highly recommend them to anyone dealing with a water loss or insurance claim.
Amanda Sternberg profile picture
Amanda Sternberg
5 months ago
Joe and his team at MSI were fantastic! They helped us clear up a water damage issue in our basement in Point Breeze. The guys who came buy were efficient and professional. Joe himself has been great, even going above and beyond to provide guidance and recommendations for next steps after his job was done. I highly recommend this company!
Stephanie Wolff profile picture
Stephanie Wolff
6 months ago
We’ve lived in our home for almost 20 years and have (unfortunately) needed MSI’s services four different times. Each time, Joe and his team have been outstanding. From the first phone call to the final follow‑up, every step is handled with genuine friendliness and true professionalism. Joe even remembered us after more than a decade between jobs.

In a time when it can be hard to get service providers to even call you back, MSI is a real standout. No one wants to deal with water damage or mold, but knowing this team is out there doing high‑quality, reliable work has been a game changer for us as homeowners.
Khyra Lammers profile picture
Khyra Lammers
7 months ago
Fast, Reliable and Straight to the Point! I called for a mold inspection quote and within minutes, Joe returned my call and scheduled my inspection. Mike was able to come out the next day, and the tests took no time at all. After the tests, Joe reviewed the results with me and clearly answered my questions about them. I appreciate their professionalism, and I highly recommend MSI if you need a mold inspection.
Joe and his team were excellent. Immediately responded and started the job within 24 hours. Extremely communicatative; explained everything in detail.
Scott Wushesnky profile picture
Scott Wushesnky
9 months ago
MSI is excellent! They were professional, reliable, and incredibly supportive. They did a phenomenal job taking care of my home and making sure that I was involved and understood the process. Highly recommend!
Billy Hayes profile picture
Billy Hayes
10 months ago
These guys have 5 stars for a reason. We had an issue with bathroom mold that needed to be treated and I had to cancel after setting a date. Joe was understanding, communicative, and helpful along the way. Once we rescheduled, the team was full of professionals that diligently remediated the affected area and cleaned up everything nicer than when they first arrived. I highly recommend them to anyone and everyone.
Lee Klein profile picture
Lee Klein
10 months ago
Joe arrived on time, entertained me with tales of traditional deep South Philly, where up means down (south) and down means up (north) -- or maybe vice versa? -- and educated me unsurprisingly on mold (you can't just buy the machine that tests for it, for example, you need certification). And he taught me something I will never forget about footwear (won't share this important and memorable lesson here, however). Generally, a pleasant, efficient process to ensure that some roof leak damage hadn't developed into something nasty/pathological. He called to discuss the results he shared via email a few days after the testing and explained everything clearly. Fully confident in his expertise -- and will call again without hesitation if it comes down to it.
Brittany Clarke profile picture
Brittany Clarke
11 months ago
Joe is the absolute best. We needed to find someone to help test for mold during our inspection process. Joe and his team provided exceptional and timely service. Joe’s candor and willingness to talk you through the issues is exactly what we needed as first time home buyers. We 100% recommend MSI.
Jacob Neumann profile picture
Jacob Neumann
11 months ago
I recently purchased by first home and discovered there was mold in the crawl space. I closed on this home Friday of one week and had roommates moving in the very next Thursday. Joe, the owner of MSI, came out on Saturday, gave me a quote, and MSI was able to start on that Monday and get the job done in time! Joe is an amazing person that carries himself in a very disciplined and professional way, and he stands behind his company's work! The crew was equally as amazing and professional. Very kind, respectful, and a thorough job done top to bottom. After the job was completed, Joe was kind enough to explain to me how to set up my dehumidifier in my crawl space so the mold has a snowball's chance in hell of coming back. MSI is an amazing company, a quality brand, and a pleasure to interact with. Should the need arise, they'll be hearing from me again for more business! Thank you MSI!
John OBrien profile picture
John OBrien
1 year ago
I can’t say enough good things about MSI and especially Joe, the owner. From the very first phone call, he was incredibly kind and understanding of my anxiety about having mold in our home with an 8-month-old baby. I reached out with a lot of questions (probably more than most!) and Joe was always patient and never made me feel like I was bothering him.

They were able to start the remediation within a week of contacting them, which gave us huge peace of mind. The team was professional, respectful of our home, and explained what they were doing each step of the way. Knowing our baby’s health and safety were a priority to them made such a difference.

Should we need further remediation, we will definitely continue using them. I’m so grateful we found MSI and would recommend them to anyone who needs mold remediation.

Structural Drying That Proves Your Property Is Dry

After water damage, moisture hides in drywall, subfloors, framing, insulation, flooring systems, and wall cavities long after the standing water is gone. Left unchecked, that trapped moisture leads to warping, rot, and mold.

That’s why MSI treats structural drying as a measured, data-driven process, not a matter of leaving fans and dehumidifiers running for a few days and hoping for the best.

Our IICRC-certified technicians pinpoint where moisture has traveled, establish the right drying conditions, measure progress, adjust the strategy the moment the data calls for it, and document every result.

Structural Drying That Proves Your Property Is Dry Image
Structural Drying Is More Than Setting Up Fans Image

Structural Drying Is More Than Setting Up Fans

Anyone can drop air movers in a wet room. That’s not drying. That’s decoration.

Professional structural drying demands real expertise: knowing where the moisture went, which materials absorbed it, how those materials release that moisture, and whether the drying environment is actually pulling it out.

MSI combines professional moisture-detection equipment, commercial dehumidification, controlled airflow, and constant measurement to manage the entire process.

The goal isn’t to make the room feel dry. The goal is to remove excess moisture from affected building materials and prove the results with hard numbers.

What Is Structural Drying?

Structural drying is the controlled removal of excess moisture from building materials after water intrusion.

Depending on the loss, moisture can settle into:

Water extraction removes the bulk water. Structural drying tackles what extraction leaves behind.

That difference is everything. Moisture migrates underneath flooring, through porous materials, and into concealed spaces that look perfectly normal from the outside, until the damage shows up weeks later.

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The MSI Difference: Drying by Data

Most restoration companies advertise the same three things: fast response, industrial equipment, and certified technicians.

Those matter. But none of them tell you whether your property is actually dry.

MSI focuses on what does: measurable drying progress.

Our technicians take moisture and atmospheric readings throughout the entire process. When the numbers aren’t moving in the right direction, we don’t shrug and wait another day. We investigate why.

Maybe the airflow needs to change. Maybe the dehumidification needs adjusting. Maybe containment needs to be reworked, or a hidden wet material is dragging down the whole environment.

Our drying strategy follows the actual conditions inside your property, never a predetermined number of equipment-rental days.

Our Structural Drying Process

Find Where the Water Traveled

01

The visible wet area rarely tells the full story of a water loss.

MSI evaluates every affected material and uses moisture-detection equipment to map the true extent of the intrusion. Before we can dry it, we have to know exactly what’s wet.

Establish a Moisture Baseline

02

Initial moisture and atmospheric readings give our technicians a clear starting point.

These measurements let us evaluate affected materials and build a drying strategy around your site’s real conditions, not a generic template.

Remove Excess Water

03

When standing or extractable water remains, we remove it before restorative drying begins.

Pulling out bulk water fast lets the structural drying process zero in on the moisture retained deep inside materials.

Create the Drying Environment

04

Commercial air movers drive evaporation from wet materials while professional dehumidifiers strip moisture from the surrounding air.

Equipment placement is never random. We position every unit around the affected materials, the size and layout of the loss, and the exact conditions our technicians find on site.

Measure Drying Progress

05

MSI takes ongoing moisture and humidity readings to confirm materials are drying as expected.

This is the line between professional structural drying and simply leaving equipment running: we track the numbers, every step of the way.

Adjust When the Data Says We Should

06

Drying isn’t always linear, and we’re ready for that.

When readings show progress has stalled, MSI adjusts airflow, equipment placement, dehumidification, or containment based on exactly what the measurements reveal. No delays. No guesswork.

Verify & Document

07

Equipment shouldn’t decide when a job is finished. Measurements should.

Once affected materials hit our drying goals, MSI completes full project documentation, including photos, moisture data, and drying logs, so you have proof the work is done right.

Your Walls Don't Have to Look Wet to Be Wet

Hidden moisture is one of the biggest risks after any water loss.

Water follows gravity, soaks into porous materials, and slips into spaces you’d never think to check.

That’s why MSI never bases drying decisions on a visual once-over alone. We measure what’s happening inside the materials, where the real damage hides.

Why Moisture Monitoring Matters

Think of structural drying as a process with a measurable start, measurable progress, and a measurable finish.

Without monitoring, you’re left guessing:

MSI answers every one of those questions with moisture and atmospheric measurements taken throughout the project.

No guesswork. No “it feels dry.” The data drives the decision.

Structural Drying + Mold Expertise

Here’s where MSI delivers an advantage most restoration companies simply can’t match.

We’ve specialized in mold inspection and remediation since 1998. We know exactly what happens when moisture gets overlooked, because we’re regularly called into buildings where a missed moisture problem has already grown into a mold problem.

That experience shapes how we approach every water loss.

We’re not just asking, “How fast can we dry this room?”

We’re also asking, “Where could moisture still be hiding?”

Pairing water-damage restoration with real mold expertise gives MSI a sharper, more complete perspective on structural drying. Our goal isn’t only to finish the dry-out. It’s to keep today’s water loss from becoming tomorrow’s hidden mold problem.

Can Structural Drying Save Building Materials?

In many cases, proper structural drying lets us save affected materials instead of tearing them out unnecessarily.

Whether a material can stay depends on factors like:

MSI evaluates the real conditions before we decide on an approach.

We don’t rip out materials just because they got wet, and we don’t keep materials just because removal is inconvenient. The decision comes down to the material’s condition and whether it can be properly restored.

When Do You Need Professional Structural Drying?

Call MSI for professional structural drying after:

Once water reaches porous building materials, mopping up the visible water is never enough. Act fast, and you contain the damage before it spreads.

Residential Structural Drying

A small residential leak can affect far more of your home than you’d ever expect.

Water from an upstairs bathroom, for instance, can travel into flooring, subflooring, the ceiling below, insulation, and adjacent wall cavities, all from one overlooked drip.

MSI traces the full path of the water, not just the spot where the leak became visible.

We provide structural drying for houses, condos, apartments, and other residential properties across Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

Commercial Structural Drying

Water damage in a commercial property brings an extra threat: business disruption. Every hour offline costs you.

MSI provides fast structural drying for offices, multifamily properties, retail environments, and other commercial buildings.

Our measurement-driven process gives owners and managers clear answers on:

Once water reaches porous building materials, mopping up the visible water is never enough. Act fast, and you contain the damage before it spreads.

Structural Drying FAQs

How long does structural drying take?

There’s no single correct number of days for every water loss. Drying time depends on the materials affected, the amount of water, environmental conditions, accessibility, and how the materials respond. That’s exactly why MSI relies on moisture readings instead of an arbitrary timeline.

Water extraction removes standing and bulk water. Structural drying tackles the moisture left inside building materials after extraction is done.

Fans move air, but professional structural drying goes far beyond airflow. The drying environment has to control humidity and moisture movement while measurements confirm real progress. Household fans do none of that.

We use professional moisture measurements and drying documentation, never just how a surface looks or feels.

Not necessarily. Whether a material can be dried depends on the type of material, contamination, extent of damage, accessibility, and other conditions. We save what we can and remove only what we must.

Yes. Removing excess moisture promptly and thoroughly cuts the conditions that let unwanted microbial growth take hold. Our background in mold inspection and remediation makes us especially effective at spotting moisture-related risks early.

Yes. MSI documents all water-restoration work and can provide the applicable photos, moisture data, drying logs, and invoicing for the property owner or insurance company.

Don't Settle for "It Looks Dry."

Water damage isn’t over when the puddle disappears.

And structural drying shouldn’t end just because a contractor decides the equipment has been on-site long enough.

You deserve to know, for certain, whether the affected materials are actually dry.

With MSI, structural drying follows one proven path:

1
Find the moisture
2
Measure it
3
Dry it
4
Monitor it
5
Verify it

That’s the MSI difference.

Mold Solutions & Inspections (MSI)
Don't Settle for Image

Need Structural Drying After Water Damage?

Call MSI for 24/7 Water Damage Response

Don’t guess what’s dry. Know what’s dry.

Water Damage Restoration

DRYING SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR BUSINESS PROPERTY

Water Damage Restoration Near You

Water intrusion into building envelopes can be incredibly destructive resulting in thousands of dollars in losses. From leaking faucets, broken hot water tanks, burst pipes and even natural disasters like flooding, the damage water causes could result in extensive property damage and content loss. Immediate action in the event of a water loss is paramount, and hiring a properly equipped, fully trained and certified company will only help expedite the water damage restoration process. Mold Solutions & Inspections has been mitigating water damaged properties for over 25 years. Our experience of implementing a successful water restoration scope has earned us accolades across a wide spectrum within the field. And because we are an IICRC Certified Firm, each of our water damage restoration technicians are fully trained to handle any loss that may occur. If you are filing an insurance claim we can help. We are an approved vendor with all of the major insurance carriers and can handle the claim directly with your insurance company to alleviate any added stress through the process. When water damage does happen, trust us to bring you back to pre-loss conditions in a safe, quick, and cost effective manner, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our Water Restoration Process

Water damage in your home or business can cause a myriad of issues leading to structural problems, damage to building materials and personal content loss if not dealt with in a quick manner. With a proper water restoration plan, those issues can be dramatically reduced, and that’s where we come into play. Our professional and award winning water damage restoration services can protect your property from secondary damage, giving you peace of mind in knowing that your home or business will be restored with the upmost care and efficiency. Our water damage restoration process is as follows;

emergency water restoration
  • Source Identification – We will find the source of water and have it stopped.
  • Assessing the Extent of Damage – We’ll inspect the building, and start the documentation process. This also includes determining the category of water which indicates the level of contamination.
  • Extraction – This is the process of removing the water using various methods like absorbing, draining, pumping and vacuuming
  • Structural Drying – Once the water is removed the drying process can begin. Air movers and dehumidifiers are placed to evaporate and extract all excess moisture from the structure.
  • Monitoring – We will take atmospheric and moisture readings to see the drying rate, make any adjustments if needed to expedite the drying process which eliminates excessive moisture and uncontrolled levels of humidity.

Once the water restoration process is finished, we then will create the final documentation which includes, photos, invoicing and drying logs for submittal to you or your insurance company directly, and assist you throughout the entire claims process.

Fire & Smoke Damage

Fire Damage Restoration and Smoke Damage service​s

A fire can be devastating to your home or business. After the fire trucks leave, your property will likely suffer from not only fire and smoke damage, but also widespread water damage and flooding from firefighting efforts. Fire damage clean up is an arduous process that often requires the proper industrial equipment and specially trained technicians.

In the wake of a fire, when victims are faced with insurance matters, arrangements for interim housing, and possible health concerns, homeowners are unlikely to make salvaging efforts the

top priority. Sadly, this could present a costly dilemma, as time is of the essence. In these cases, the services of a certified fire restoration company are invaluable. Delays in fire damage clean up can have serious consequences. In addition to the obvious devastation created by heat, flames and soot, water and smoke are powerful contaminators and destructors in their own right. Immediate intervention is critical to minimize exposure to these damaging agents in hopes of limiting restoration costs.

Fire & Smoke Damage

Why Immediate Action Is Needed

  • Within minutes after the blaze is extinguished, acidic soot residue causes discoloration of plastics. Certain materials like marble and alabaster could be marred permanently.
  • It only takes a matter of hours for acidic soot to cause yellowing of bath fixtures, counter tops, & the tarnishing of unprotected metals. Furniture & appliances may also discolor.
  • Within days, acid residues may permanently discolor walls and cause corrosion and rusting of metals. Flooring made of wood or vinyl must be replaced (or at the least refinished), and textiles such as clothing and furniture upholstery becomes irreparably stained.
  • In a matter of weeks, carpet may become unsalvageable due to discoloration. Silver-plated fixtures are irreversibly corroded. Glass, crystal, and china may become severely etched and pitted due to extended exposure to acidic soot residue.