Residential Water Damage & Reconstruction in Kent, WA

A malfunctioning air-conditioning line in the attic failed and drained into the ceiling, causing water damage across multiple rooms. On the second floor of a rental property, the loft, two bedrooms, a closet, a hallway, and the attic were all affected. Restoration 1 of South Sound coordinated directly with renters, performed mitigation, and carried out full repair and reconstruction to restore the home fully.

The Incident: AC Drain Failure in Attic

When the air-conditioning unit’s drain line clogged and overflowed, water began dripping down into the attic and trickling into the floors below. Over time, the ceiling and structural elements became saturated. The loft, two bedrooms, a closet, and the hallway all showed signs of staining, sagging drywall, and soft flooring underfoot. The attic insulation was soaked, risking further damage and mold growth.

Quick Response & Mitigation

Upon arrival, we first coordinated with the property manager and rented unit occupants to safely access the areas. Our mitigation team assessed moisture levels with thermal imaging and moisture meters. We prioritized stopping the leak, removing standing water, and beginning structural drying. High-capacity dehumidifiers and air movers were placed strategically. We removed wet insulation, damaged drywall, and other unsalvageable materials.

Reconstruction & Rebuild Process

Once the structure dried to acceptable moisture levels, our rebuild team began reconstruction. We replaced affected drywall, patched ceilings, restored insulation, and installed new flooring where needed. Trim, doors, and finishes were realigned or replaced. In bedrooms and the loft, we matched textures and blended with original finishes so the repairs looked seamless.

Collaborating with Renters & Minimizing Disruption

Because this was a rental property with active tenants, we coordinated work times and staged access carefully. We kept the affected rooms isolated and dust control protocols in place. Communication was constant—updates to tenants and the property manager kept everyone informed of timelines and safety steps.

Outcome & Lessons Learned

The water damage was fully mitigated before mold could take hold. We successfully restored all rooms to pre-loss condition, with no visible signs of repair. In post-project inspection, moisture readings confirmed dryness and integrity of reconstructed surfaces. The property was handed back in move-in-ready condition.