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