Housing in Murray and where water damage starts
Murray has about 21,557 homes, and half of them were built in 1978 or earlier. Population was broadly stable between 2020 and 2024 (+0.4%). With 54% of the housing stock dating from before 1980, many homes are now running on original or decades-old supply lines, water heaters, drain lines and roof assemblies. Older plumbing is a common starting point for slow hidden leaks and sudden failures, so moisture can be behind walls or under floors before anyone notices.
Murray climate and water risk
The nearest NOAA normals station, Holladay 0.7 Wnw, records 22.4 inches of precipitation in a normal year. That is a semi-arid total, so many water losses here come from inside the home: plumbing, appliances and water heaters, plus the occasional intense storm.
Disaster history in Salt Lake County
FEMA records 4 major disaster declarations covering Salt Lake County since 2000. 3 of the county's declarations on record were classified as floods. The most recent water-related declaration was DR-4578 (Straight-Line Winds), declared in January 2021. Before that: DR-4011, flooding (August 2011); DR-720, severe storms, mudslides, landslides & flooding (August 1984). Declarations mark the largest events; most household water damage comes from smaller storms and everyday plumbing failures that never reach that level.
Creeks, rivers and drainage around Murray
USGS maintains surface-water monitoring sites within about five miles of central Murray on East Jordan Canal, Little Cottonwood Creek, Jordan River and Big Cottonwood Creek. Homes near these channels and their floodplains can see water rise quickly during heavy rain. FEMA flood maps for any address can be checked at the FEMA Flood Map Service Center before and after a storm.
What the local data points to in Murray
- Sewage Cleanup (Biohazard): 54% of homes predate 1980, an age when original sewer laterals and cast-iron drains are common sources of backups.
- Flood Cleanup: 3 flood declarations in Salt Lake County and nearby channels such as East Jordan Canal.
All services through the Murray referral line
- Water Damage Restoration
- Water Removal & Extraction
- Water Damage Cleanup & Drying
- Flood Cleanup
- Burst & Frozen Pipe Water Cleanup
- Basement Flooding Cleanup
- Crawl Space Water Cleanup
- Carpet Water Extraction & Drying
- Wood Floor Water Damage Drying
- Appliance Leak Water Cleanup
- Sewage Cleanup (Biohazard)
- Mold Removal & Remediation
- Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration
Not covered: drywall repair and rebuilding, mold testing, plumbing leak detection and insurance-only questions.
How the call works
Call (844) 477-0896 and describe the source of the water and the rooms affected. The call is connected to an independent contractor serving Murray, subject to availability. The contractor sets scope, schedule and price directly with you. Before work begins, ask the contractor for proof of the license and insurance required in Utah.
Murray questions
How do I get connected with a water damage contractor in Murray?
Call (844) 477-0896. Water Damage Restore connects callers in Murray, UT with an independent restoration contractor, subject to availability. Water Damage Restore does not perform the work.
What should I do while waiting in Murray?
Shut off the water at the main valve if a pipe or appliance is leaking, keep clear of wet electrical outlets, move valuables off wet floors and take photos of the damage. The independent contractor confirms scope and next steps.
Is Murray in a flood zone?
Flood zones are mapped address by address. Look up a specific property on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). Salt Lake County has 3 flood disaster declarations on FEMA record.
Can a landlord call about a rental in Murray?
Yes. Property owners and authorized property managers can call to be connected with an independent contractor.