Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Categories

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to numerous factors, including:

– Broken pipes or appliances
– Roof leaks
– Flooding
– Basement seepage

Types of Water Damage

Water damage is broadly classified into three categories based on the source of the water:

Categories of Water Damage

Category 1: Clean Water

– Originates from a clean source, such as a broken pipe or leaky faucet
– Can be safely cleaned and dried without posing health risks

Category 2: Gray Water

– Contains moderate levels of bacteria and contaminants
– Originates from sources such as dishwashers, washing machines, or toilets
– Requires professional cleaning and disinfection

Category 3: Black Water

– Severely contaminated with bacteria and microorganisms
– Originates from sewage backups, floodwater, or stagnant water
– Poses significant health risks and requires extensive cleanup and restoration efforts