Types of Water Damage: Causes and Categories

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage in a property can occur due to various reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Leaking pipes or appliances
  • Flooding
  • Heavy rainfall
  • Broken or cracked water lines
  • Poor drainage systems

Categories of Water Damage

Water damage is typically classified into three categories based on the source of the water, the extent of contamination, and the potential health risks it poses. These categories are:

Category 1: Clean Water

* Caused by clean sources such as broken water pipes
* Can result in minor damage with minimal clean-up and restoration effort
* Does not pose significant health risks

Category 2: Gray Water

* Caused by sources that may contain contaminants, such as washing machines or dishwashers
* Can cause moderate damage and may require sanitization or disinfection
* May pose some health risks if not properly handled

Category 3: Black Water

* Caused by heavily contaminated sources, such as sewage or floodwaters
* Can cause severe damage and requires extensive restoration efforts
* Poses significant health risks and should be handled by professionals