Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Categories
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to various reasons, including:
- Leaks from plumbing fixtures, appliances, or roofs
- Flooding from heavy rain, hurricanes, or broken dams
- Natural disasters such as earthquakes or tsunamis
- Burst pipes from freezing or excessive pressure
Types of Water Damage
Water damage is classified into three categories:
Category 1: Clean Water Damage
* Caused by water sources deemed "clean," such as broken water lines or overflowing sinks
* Minimal contamination
* Can be cleaned and restored quickly
Category 2: Grey Water Damage
* Caused by water sources containing organic contaminants, such as dishwasher overflow or washing machine leaks
* Requires disinfection and more extensive cleaning
* May pose health hazards
Category 3: Black Water Damage
* Caused by water contaminated with sewage, mold, or other harmful substances
* Requires professional remediation and disinfection
* Presents severe health risks