Water damage help in Chicago, IL
- Areas: the North Side, the West Side, the South Side, the Northwest Side
- 22 ZIP codes covered
- Free referral, no obligation
Homes in Chicago and how they leak
The city's signature homes are brick bungalows, two-flats and three-flats, most built before 1940 with full basements. Many basements have been finished or turned into garden apartments, which raises the stakes. Plumbing is often original galvanized or lead supply with cast iron stacks.
Local issues that cause water damage
Sewer backup
In storms like July 2023, the combined sewers fill and push stormwater and sewage up through basement floor drains, especially on the West Side. See sewage backup cleanup.
Deep freezes
Cold snaps such as January 2019 burst pipes in exterior walls, enclosed porches and vacant units.
Flat roofs and parapets
Flat roofs on two-flats and courtyard buildings pond water when drains clog with leaves or ice.
Common calls in Chicago
Sewage backup cleanup
Toilet overflows and sewer line backups (Category 3).
Learn more →Basement flooding cleanup
Sump pump failures, seepage and storm water in basements.
Learn more →
Burst pipe cleanup
Frozen and failed pipes, supply lines and fittings.
Learn more →
Ceiling water damage repair
Stains, sagging drywall and leaks from above.
Learn more →Also available: emergency water damage steps and all water damage services.
Chicago at a glance
- State
- Illinois
- County or area
- Cook County
- Neighborhoods
- the North Side, the West Side, the South Side, the Northwest Side, the Loop
- ZIP codes covered
- 60601, 60602, 60603, 60604, 60605, 60606, 60607, 60610, 60611, 60613, 60614, 60618, 60622, 60631, 60642, 60646, 60647, 60654, 60655, 60657, 60661, 60699
- Who does the work
- Independent local restoration companies
Questions from Chicago homeowners
How do I stop sewer water coming up my floor drain?
Short term, a standpipe or drain plug can help. Long term, a backwater valve or an overhead sewer conversion by a licensed plumber is the fix.
Does my policy cover basement sewer backup?
Only if you added a water backup endorsement. It is one of the most important add-ons for a Chicago homeowner.
Other cities we cover
See how Illinois's weather, housing and rules affect water damage on the Illinois page.
Water damage in Chicago?
Call and we'll connect you with an independent restoration company that serves your ZIP code. Free, no obligation.