Water Damage Restoration in Arlington, VA
Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.
Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from Marymount University in Arlington to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Arlington, VA is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.
Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Arlington. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.
Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:
Navigating the insurance claim process
We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion
We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.
You might also be thinking about:
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.
Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.
Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.
Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.
Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.
Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.
Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.
Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.
Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.
At Disaster Response, It's All About You
Like Brandymore Castle Historical Marker in Arlington, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Arlington.
Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.
We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.
The Disaster Response Difference
Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes
In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.
Insurance Advocacy
Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.
Satisfaction Guaranteed
We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.
Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Arlington, VA
Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.
As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to Sunrise of Arlington in Arlington for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.
What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Arlington, VA, Different from Others?
One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Arlington?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.
But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:
Cost
Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.
Technicians
Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to
Time
Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Long Bridge Park in Arlington. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.
Tools
Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.
Process
For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.
Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network
We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.
What Does Disaster Response Fix?
As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Arlington, VA, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.
- Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
- Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
- Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
- Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to BallSellers House John Ball House in Arlington, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.
What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?
We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Arlington restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:
Infrared Cameras
Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.
Moisture Meters
We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.
Air Movers
This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.
Ozone Generators
These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.
Xtreme Xtractor
This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.
Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About
Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Arlington, VA, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:
Clean Water Damage
This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.
Gray Water Damage
Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.
Black Water Damage
The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.
If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:
- Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
- Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
- Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.
Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Arlington, VA
Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.
We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.
After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.
Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.
- Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
- Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
- Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
- Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
The Water Damage Company in Arlington, VA, You Can Trust
When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Green Pig Bistro in Arlington. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.
As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.
Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Arlington rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.
Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!
Latest News in Arlington, VA
Where to Have Breakfast with Santa
Stephanie Kanowitzhttps://www.arlingtonmagazine.com/breakfast-santa-photos-arlington-mclean-tysons-falls-church-virginia/
Sure, the reindeer pull the sleigh, but a man’s gotta eat. And at these nine venues, Santa Claus will be on hand for buffets, bottomless Bellinis and bacon. Don your holiday best, clean those camera lenses and bring your gift wish list for the big guy.Dec. 7, 8-10 a.m.The Italian restaurant in the Tysons Galleria mall will have a breakfast buffet plus opportunities for photos with Santa. Kids can also write him letters and decorate holiday cookies. Santa’s elves will be on hand to help children make...
Sure, the reindeer pull the sleigh, but a man’s gotta eat. And at these nine venues, Santa Claus will be on hand for buffets, bottomless Bellinis and bacon. Don your holiday best, clean those camera lenses and bring your gift wish list for the big guy.
Dec. 7, 8-10 a.m.
The Italian restaurant in the Tysons Galleria mall will have a breakfast buffet plus opportunities for photos with Santa. Kids can also write him letters and decorate holiday cookies. Santa’s elves will be on hand to help children make “magic reindeer food” to encourage Rudolph and friends to swing by their homes on Christmas Eve. The cost is $40 per child and $30 per adult. // 2001 International Drive, McLean
- Advertisement -
Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
The annual event welcomes the man in red with a hot breakfast and time to create Christmas crafts. It’s free and open to the public. // 3022 Woodlawn Ave., Falls Church
Dec. 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jolly Old St. Nick will be on hand as you enjoy a gourmet brunch and bottomless mimosas, Bellinis and Bloody Marys. Tickets cost $113.40 per adult and $50.40 per child ages 6-12. // 8000 Towers Crescent Drive, Vienna
- Advertisement -
Dec. 8, 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
The restaurant continues its long-running tradition of dining with Santa. At each of the three seatings, you can expect a brunch buffet, live holiday music and carols, and time with the Clauses. Reservations are recommended. // 105 W. Broad St., Falls Church
Dec. 8 and 15, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Choose Spanish holiday dishes from a special three-course menu while the kiddos chat with Santa. For adults, options include bechamel croquettes, Manchego cheese grits with chorizo and shrimp, braised short ribs, and flan. Bellinis and mimosas will also be available. Little ones can choose from a grilled hanger steak with fries, salmon or pancakes. The brunch costs $65 per adult and $25 per child. // 1110 N. Glebe Road, Arlington
- Advertisement -
Dec. 14, 9-10a.m.
The menu includes breakfast pastries, brioche French toast with fresh berries, scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes and applewood-smoked bacon. Kiddos can sip cocoa, OJ or apple juice, while adults caffeinate with coffee or chill with a mimosa. Santa Warren of Santa’s Just Like Me, which provides Santas of color, will visit Dec. 8, 10-11 a.m. to take photos and gift requests. // 2255 International Drive, McLean
Dec. 14, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Why should Santa get all the cookies? Enjoy some with him, do some snow-themed crafts and sip cocoa. Tickets are $20 or $15 for McLean residents. // 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean
Dec. 15, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
The real star of this holiday breakfast buffet is the Man in Red. Reservations are required, and tickets cost $139 per adult and $59 per child ages 4-12. // 1700 Tysons Blvd., McLean
Dec. 22, 12-2 p.m.
OK, so this isn’t technically breakfast, although arguments can be made. Make your list, check it twice and then hand it over to Santa at this scoop shop. Check out the holiday flavors like eggnog and pumpkin pie and hot cocoa bombs while you’re there, too. // 6353 Columbia Pike, Falls Church (Barcroft Plaza)
Where To See Santa In Arlington This Christmas Season
Arlington, VA Patchhttps://patch.com/virginia/arlington-va/where-see-santa-arlington-christmas-season-0
ARLINGTON, VA — Visits and pictures with Santa Claus are treasured traditions for many Arlington families. In Arlington, kids have several chances to see jolly old St. Nick in person.Here are the details:Rosslyn BID is hosting Rosslyn Cheer 2024: Light on the Plaza on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., at the Central Place Plaza, which is located at 1800 N Lynn St. in Arlington. The event will feature a variety of h...
ARLINGTON, VA — Visits and pictures with Santa Claus are treasured traditions for many Arlington families. In Arlington, kids have several chances to see jolly old St. Nick in person.
Here are the details:
Rosslyn BID is hosting Rosslyn Cheer 2024: Light on the Plaza on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., at the Central Place Plaza, which is located at 1800 N Lynn St. in Arlington. The event will feature a variety of holiday activities.
On Friday, Dec. 6, from 5-7 p.m., Rosslyn BID is also hosting Santa Paws Yappy where attendees will have a chance to get dog-friendly pictures with Santa.
"Happy hour will include beer, wine, and spiked cider for purchase in partnership with our friends at Open Road, and make sure you grab a pcele uppuccino for your furry bestie! Dog-friendly vendors will also be on-site to help you stock up on some pup-friendly goodies," according to Rossyln BID.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be making an appearance at the Winter Waterland at Water Park holiday celebration at National Landing on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 4-8 p.m.
"Guests can enjoy ice skating, an interactive snow globe photo booth, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live performances by the Arlington Philharmonic, a hot chocolate bar, a wreath-making station, LED games, and much more," according to a release. "The event is free and open to the public, with tickets available for reservation here."
Santa is also holding court at several shopping malls in the local area, including:
Don't miss Santa pictures at Ballston Quarter. Santa will be at the mall from Nov. 29 through Christmas Eve. Hours will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12-6 p.m. on Sundays. A complete list of hours is available online. Walk-ups are welcome but reservations are encouraged.
Pet nights will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday on Dec. 2-3 and Dec. 9-10. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Fashion Centre at Pentagon CitySanta is at the center's Nordstrom Court now through Christmas Eve. Hours vary by week. A complete list of hours is available online. Reservations are recommended but walk-ups are welcome.
Pet nights will be held Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Pictures with Santa are available now through Christmas Eve at Tysons Corner Center. A complete list of hours is available online. Reservations are recommended.
Pet nights are held from 6-8 p.m. on Mondays through Dec. 9. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 10-11 a.m.
Tysons GalleriaVisit Santa this holiday season at Tysons Galleria. Get your photos with Santa now through Dec. 24. Hours vary by day and week. Walk-ups are welcome, but registration is encouraged.
Pet nights will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays starting Nov. 25 through Dec. 10. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Where To See Santa In Arlington This Christmas Season
Arlington, VA Patchhttps://patch.com/virginia/arlington-va/where-see-santa-arlington-christmas-season-0
ARLINGTON, VA — Visits and pictures with Santa Claus are treasured traditions for many Arlington families. In Arlington, kids have several chances to see jolly old St. Nick in person.Here are the details:Rosslyn BID is hosting Rosslyn Cheer 2024: Light on the Plaza on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., at the Central Place Plaza, which is located at 1800 N Lynn St. in Arlington. The event will feature a variety of h...
ARLINGTON, VA — Visits and pictures with Santa Claus are treasured traditions for many Arlington families. In Arlington, kids have several chances to see jolly old St. Nick in person.
Here are the details:
Rosslyn BID is hosting Rosslyn Cheer 2024: Light on the Plaza on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 5-8 p.m., at the Central Place Plaza, which is located at 1800 N Lynn St. in Arlington. The event will feature a variety of holiday activities.
On Friday, Dec. 6, from 5-7 p.m., Rosslyn BID is also hosting Santa Paws Yappy where attendees will have a chance to get dog-friendly pictures with Santa.
"Happy hour will include beer, wine, and spiked cider for purchase in partnership with our friends at Open Road, and make sure you grab a pcele uppuccino for your furry bestie! Dog-friendly vendors will also be on-site to help you stock up on some pup-friendly goodies," according to Rossyln BID.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be making an appearance at the Winter Waterland at Water Park holiday celebration at National Landing on Saturday, Dec. 14, from 4-8 p.m.
"Guests can enjoy ice skating, an interactive snow globe photo booth, visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, live performances by the Arlington Philharmonic, a hot chocolate bar, a wreath-making station, LED games, and much more," according to a release. "The event is free and open to the public, with tickets available for reservation here."
Santa is also holding court at several shopping malls in the local area, including:
Don't miss Santa pictures at Ballston Quarter. Santa will be at the mall from Nov. 29 through Christmas Eve. Hours will be 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 12-6 p.m. on Sundays. A complete list of hours is available online. Walk-ups are welcome but reservations are encouraged.
Pet nights will be held from 4-7 p.m. Monday and Tuesday on Dec. 2-3 and Dec. 9-10. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Fashion Centre at Pentagon CitySanta is at the center's Nordstrom Court now through Christmas Eve. Hours vary by week. A complete list of hours is available online. Reservations are recommended but walk-ups are welcome.
Pet nights will be held Dec. 1 and Dec. 8 from 6:30-8 p.m. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Pictures with Santa are available now through Christmas Eve at Tysons Corner Center. A complete list of hours is available online. Reservations are recommended.
Pet nights are held from 6-8 p.m. on Mondays through Dec. 9. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 10-11 a.m.
Tysons GalleriaVisit Santa this holiday season at Tysons Galleria. Get your photos with Santa now through Dec. 24. Hours vary by day and week. Walk-ups are welcome, but registration is encouraged.
Pet nights will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Mondays and Tuesdays starting Nov. 25 through Dec. 10. A sensory-friendly event with Santa is also scheduled on Dec. 8 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Arlington’s Most Walkable Neighborhoods
Stephanie Kanowitzhttps://www.arlingtonmagazine.com/arlington-virginia-most-walkable-neighborhoods/
It’s pretty easy to get your steps in around Arlington, which for seven years running has held bragging rights as the nation’s fittest city. Much of that is by design: Sidewalks, parks, walking trails and entertainment districts built around public transportation all contribute to the county’s supreme walkability.In fact, real estate site Redfin this year named Arlington the ...
It’s pretty easy to get your steps in around Arlington, which for seven years running has held bragging rights as the nation’s fittest city. Much of that is by design: Sidewalks, parks, walking trails and entertainment districts built around public transportation all contribute to the county’s supreme walkability.
In fact, real estate site Redfin this year named Arlington the most walkable city in Virginia. Walk Score, a Redfin subsidiary, gives Arlington an overall score of 71 out of 100, noting that “most errands can be accomplished on foot.” The county’s walk score is based on an analysis of hundreds of pedestrian routes to various amenities. The shorter the distance, the more points cities get.
If there’s any downside to walkability, it may well be housing costs. While walkability is hardly the cause of Arlington’s skyrocketing real estate prices, it is a factor. Car-independent communities are in demand. According to a recent Smart Growth America report, homebuyers will spend 35% more to live in pedestrian-friendly areas with access to public transit, and renters will pay 41% more.
- Advertisement -
According to Redfin, the average monthly rent for an apartment in Arlington is $2,864, compared with a national average of $1,514.
Then again, there are many upsides to walkability, not the least of which are improved health, reduced fossil fuel consumption and greater community cohesion. Here’s a look at Arlington’s 10 most-walkable neighborhoods, according to Walk Score. For each neighborhood, we’ve also included Transit and Bike Scores.
Walk Score: 84 Transit Score: 72 Bike Score: 67
Bordered by Rosslyn to the north, Courthouse to the west, and Arlington National Cemetery to the south, this urban village, which Niche deemed the second best place to live in Arlington, has a large concentration of townhomes and apartments, and a majority of residents are renters. The neighborhood is within walking distance of myriad restaurants and businesses and two metro stations, as well as the grassy lawns surrounding the U.S. Marine Corps Memorial and Netherlands Carillon, prime spots for summer concerts, July Fourth fireworks and views of the D.C. monuments.
- Advertisement -
Walk Score: 85 Transit Score: 61 Bike Score: 88
A diverse neighborhood of single-family homes, townhomes, condos and clutches of garden-style apartments connected by walking paths, Buckingham is home to the 126 apartment buildings built between 1937 and 1953 that comprise much of the Buckingham Village Historic District. Residents can take a short stroll to the shops, brewpubs and eateries of Ballston and connect with nature by hopping on the Arlington, Custis and Bluemont Junction trails.
Walk Score: 85 Transit Score: 72 Bike Score: 87
This tight-knit community of single-family homes just west of Amazon’s HQ2 and Reagan National Airport has lots of small bungalows that are being remodeled. Nearby Virginia Highlands Park is a gathering spot with playgrounds and athletic fields, and the Four Mile Run trail is popular with walkers and cyclists. Residents of this 114-year-old community have their pick of restaurants in the nearby dining districts of Westpost, Metropolitan Park and Crystal City’s charming 23rd Street “Restaurant Row.” And Arlington’s largest shopping mall, the Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, is also just few blocks down the road on foot.
Walk Score: 86 Transit Score: 68 Bike Score: 91
As we have reported before, this neighborhood adjoining Lyon Park won the location lottery. Bordered by commerce along Wilson Boulevard, North 10th Street, North Irving Street, Arlington Boulevard and Glebe Road, it’s one of Arlington’s oldest communities, with a patchwork of pretty single-family houses, each with its own architectural aesthetic (read: not cookie-cutter). Head out for an evening stroll to check out the latest exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington or partake in the nightlife options in Clarendon and Ballston. You won’t even need to call an Uber.
Walk Score: 86 Transit Score: 69 Bike Score: 83
The area critics once referred to as a “desolate concrete” forest of nondescript office buildings is today home to Amazon’s HQ2, and is exploding with new buildings, parks, bike lanes, sidewalk cafes and commissioned public artworks. It’s even got a new name—National Landing—which comprises Crystal City, Pentagon City and Potomac Yard. Delivering on the promise of the local business improvement district’s Mobility Next initiative, residents can access just about everything they need on foot, from fast-casual and fine dining options to grocery stores, shops, service businesses and public transit. By 2030, the initiative envisions “unparalleled mobility access—where you can catch the Metro across town for lunch, a train to New York or Richmond for the night, or a flight to a vacation in the Caribbean, all within walking distance.”
Walk Score: 88 Transit Score: 71 Bike Score: 80
This historic garden-style apartment community with 162 units serving diverse residents of all ages and incomes offers affordable housing one block from the Courthouse metro station. Sandwiched between Courthouse and Rosslyn, it’s a National Historic Site—the first large-scale rental housing project in the country to be insured by the Federal Housing Administration. Residents can hoof it to run errands, grab dinner (we have some dining recs in Rosslyn and nearby Clarendon) or hop on the bus or subway for a quick trip into D.C.
Walk Score: 88 Transit Score: 75 Bike Score: 78
The high-rise towers of this urban enclave on the Potomac are what make up Arlington’s “skyline” when viewed from across the river in D.C. Vertical living is the norm here, and many apartments and condos offer picturesque views of the nation’s capital. The adjacent Key Bridge makes for an easy walk or bike ride into Georgetown, and fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the 18-mile, paved Mount Vernon Trail. Pocket parks, outdoor sculptures and cafes make for a vibrant streetscape, while public spaces such as Gateway Park and Central Place Plaza play host to live music performances, outdoor film screenings and seasonal festivals. Top-tier employers in the neighborhood include Nestle, Microsoft and Deloitte.
Walk Score: 92 Transit Score: 69 Bike Score: 83
Walk Score calls this upscale neighborhood of close-knit single-family homes “a walker’s paradise,” in part because of its proximity to the heart of Clarendon, with its nexus of shops, eateries, markets and bars. Winding sidewalks, leafy parks and tidy houses—many of them remodeled postwar homes on small lots—create a village vibe in this neighborhood founded in 1923, which still stages quaint July Fourth parades and an annual spaghetti dinner, but also maintains its own Slack channel for keeping neighbors in the know about local happenings. Both the Courthouse and Clarendon metro stops are a block from the neighborhood’s borders.
Walk Score: 92 Transit Score: 69 Bike Score: 77
Metro’s Orange Line corridor has long been celebrated as a national model for smart growth, and this busy stretch of it is a haven for well-heeled young professionals and empty nesters who enjoy the proximity to restaurants, music venues, gyms, dog parks, coffee shops, art galleries, co-working spaces and other urban-style amenities. The Crossing Clarendon, with its mix of national and local retailers, offers seasonal events and sits just across the street from the ultimate anchor of affluence—a Whole Foods. Neighboring Courthouse, the center of the Arlington County government, is also lined with restaurants, coffee shops and come-as-you-are bars that draw denizens out of their offices, condos and apartment buildings to mix and mingle.
Walk Score: 92 Transit Score: 73 Bike Score: 85
All sidewalks lead to…Ballston? Perhaps its no surprise that several of the other walkable neighborhoods on this list—including Ashton Heights, Buckingham and Clarendon—connect to this burgeoning hub whose dramatic transformation in recent years has made it a sought-after place to live, work and play. Tech companies, government R&D labs and major universities have strongholds here, and shiny new buildings seem to be popping up like mushrooms as redevelopment continues. Perched high above the action is Medstar Capitals Iceplex, home of the Washington Capitals practice rink, while the street-level fun includes a bevvy of hip restaurants and bars, art installations, pocket parks, holiday observances and a weekly farmers market. The annual Quarterfest Crawl makes the most of the neighborhood’s walkability, with food vendors and live music stages spanning several blocks.