Water damage can arise from various sources within or outside a building, including:
Based on the source and severity, water damage can be categorized as:
– Clean Water: Originating from sources such as broken water pipes or appliances, this water is generally free from contaminants and poses minimal health risks.
– Gray Water: Derived from sources like washing machines, dishwashers, or sinks, it contains dissolved organic matter and microorganisms, posing some health concerns.
– Black Water: provenant from highly contaminated sources such as sewage backups or floodwaters, this water poses significant health hazards due to the presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants.
Water damage is further classified into three categories based on the extent and severity of the damage:
– **Category 1:** Minor damage affecting only a limited area, with no or minimal harm to the structure or contents. Typically caused by clean water, restoration is relatively straightforward.
– **Category 2:** Moderate damage affecting a larger area, potentially involving structural components and contents. Can be caused by either clean or gray water, requiring more extensive restoration efforts.
– **Category 3:** Severe damage affecting a significant portion of the building, often including structural damage and widespread contamination. Primarily caused by black water, restoration is complex and requires specialized expertise.