Board-Up Services Cost: Emergency Pricing Guide

How Much Do Board-Up Services Cost?

When your property suffers fire, storm, vandalism, or other damage that breaches the building envelope, emergency board-up is the critical first step. Securing exposed windows, doors, and structural openings prevents further damage from weather, animals, and unauthorized entry. It's also typically required by your insurance policy as part of your duty to mitigate further loss.

At Advanced Disaster Recovery Inc. (ADRI), we provide 24/7 emergency board-up and property securing services. Here's what these services cost in 2026.

Board-Up and Emergency Securing Costs

Data reflects 2026 pricing for the Northeast US service area. After-hours and weekend emergency calls may include additional service charges.

Factors That Affect Board-Up Costs

1. Number and Size of Openings

The primary cost driver is how many windows, doors, and structural openings need securing. Standard residential windows average $75-$300 each, while oversized picture windows, sliding glass doors, or commercial storefronts cost more due to larger plywood requirements and additional labor.

2. Height and Accessibility

Ground-floor board-ups are straightforward. Second-story and above require ladders or lifts, adding $100-$500 to the project. Commercial buildings with high storefronts or upper-floor damage may require boom lifts at $200-$500 per day.

3. Time of Service

Standard business hours (Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm) represent base pricing. Emergency services during evenings, weekends, and holidays may include a surcharge of $100-$300. However, delaying board-up to save on after-hours fees almost always costs more in additional damage from weather exposure or unauthorized entry.

4. Type of Damage

The cause of damage affects the board-up approach:

• Fire damage: May require structural assessment before board-up to ensure safe working conditions. Charred framing may not hold fasteners properly.
• Storm damage: Often combined with emergency tarping for roof damage. High winds during ongoing storms can complicate the process.
• Vandalism/break-in: Usually involves fewer openings but may require immediate response for security.
• Vehicle impact: Structural damage may require temporary shoring in addition to board-up.

5. Materials Used

Standard 1/2-inch CDX plywood is the industry norm. Some situations require:

• 3/4-inch plywood: For larger openings or high-security situations (adds 30-50% to material cost)
• Polycarbonate panels: Allow light while securing the opening (2-3x the cost of plywood)
• Steel security panels: For long-term vacancy protection (3-5x the cost of plywood)

Board-Up vs. the Cost of Not Boarding Up

Homeowners sometimes hesitate on board-up costs, not realizing what they stand to lose:

• Rain damage through open windows: A single rainstorm through unprotected openings can cause $5,000-$20,000 in water damage to floors, walls, and furnishings.
• Theft and vandalism: Unsecured properties are targets. Average theft loss from an unsecured damaged property: $2,000-$8,000.
• Animal intrusion: Birds, raccoons, and squirrels can enter and cause additional damage costing $500-$3,000 to remediate.
• Insurance claim denial: Insurers can reduce or deny claims if you fail to mitigate further damage after the initial incident. Board-up is your documented proof of mitigation.
• Municipal code violations: Many municipalities require unsecured damaged structures to be boarded within 24-72 hours or face fines.

Does Insurance Cover Board-Up Services?

Yes. Board-up services are covered under virtually all homeowner's and commercial property insurance policies as part of "emergency mitigation" or "reasonable repairs to protect property." Key points:

• No deductible usually applies: Emergency mitigation costs are often paid before your deductible is applied to the main claim.
• Separate from your damage claim: Board-up costs typically do not count against your claim limits.
• Documentation is essential: Photograph all damage before board-up and keep all receipts and invoices.
• Pre-authorization not required: You do not need to wait for insurance approval before boarding up. Your policy requires you to act.

ADRI bills insurance directly for board-up services in most cases, so you don't have to pay out of pocket and wait for reimbursement. Contact us for immediate service.

When You Need Emergency Board-Up

Call for board-up services immediately when:

• Fire has broken windows or burned through exterior walls
• Storm has damaged roof, windows, or siding
• A vehicle has impacted your building
• Vandalism or break-in has left openings
• A fallen tree has penetrated the roof or walls
• Any event has created openings in the building envelope

ADRI provides 24/7 emergency response across NY, NJ, PA, and CT with typical arrival times of 1-3 hours. Our teams carry all necessary materials and equipment to secure your property on the first visit.

Choosing a Board-Up Service Provider

• 24/7 availability: Damage doesn't happen on a schedule. Choose a company with true round-the-clock service.
• Insurance experience: Your provider should know how to document and bill board-up services for insurance reimbursement.
• Full-service restoration: Companies that also handle the restoration work (like ADRI) provide continuity and often include board-up costs in the overall project.
• Proper insurance: Verify the company carries liability insurance and workers' compensation.
• Written estimates: Even in emergencies, get a written estimate or per-opening rate before work begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to board up a house after a fire?

Boarding up a house after a fire typically costs $800-$3,500 depending on the number of damaged openings and the extent of structural damage. Most fire-damaged homes require 4-8 openings boarded, plus potential roof tarping. These costs are covered by homeowner's insurance as emergency mitigation.

Is board-up included in restoration company estimates?

It depends on the company. At ADRI, emergency board-up costs are typically incorporated into the overall restoration project estimate. If you hire a separate board-up contractor, those costs are still reimbursable by insurance but you'll manage two separate vendors. Using a full-service restoration company like ADRI streamlines the process.

How long can a building stay boarded up?

Standard plywood board-up is designed for temporary protection, typically effective for 3-6 months. For longer vacancy periods, upgraded materials (steel panels, reinforced plywood) or security systems may be more cost-effective. Many municipalities have ordinances requiring repair or demolition within 6-12 months of boarding up.

Can I board up my own property to save money?

While DIY board-up is possible for ground-floor windows, professional board-up offers important advantages: proper fastening techniques that don't cause additional damage, correct material selection, insurance-formatted documentation, and simultaneous damage assessment. The cost difference is typically $200-$500, which is small compared to the risk of improper securing or missing damage documentation for your claim. Consider financing options if cost is a concern.

Get Emergency Board-Up Service Now

Don't leave your property exposed. Contact Advanced DRI for 24/7 emergency board-up and property securing services. We arrive fast, secure your property properly, and handle the insurance paperwork so you can focus on what matters.

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