**What is Water Damage?**
Water damage refers to any damage caused by the presence of water or moisture in an undesirable location. It can result in various negative consequences for both residential and commercial properties.
### Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to several factors, including:
– **Natural Disasters:** Hurricanes, floods, and heavy rainfall can cause significant water damage.
– **Plumbing Failures:** Leaking pipes, burst water heaters, and overflowing toilets can lead to water damage within buildings.
– **Roof Leaks:** Cracks or missing shingles can allow water to seep into the interior of a building.
– **Basement Flooding:** Heavy rainfall, groundwater infiltration, or plumbing issues can cause basement flooding.
– **Condensate Overflow:** Condensation on pipes or air conditioning units can overflow and cause water damage.
### Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be classified into two main types:
– **Clean Water Damage:** This type of water damage involves water that is relatively clean and free of harmful contaminants.
– **Dirty Water Damage:** Dirty water damage involves water that contains contaminants such as sewage, pesticides, or hazardous materials.
### Categories of Water Damage
Water damage is further categorized into three distinct categories based on the source of the water:
– **Category 1: Clean Water**
– Water from a clean source, such as a broken water pipe or leaking faucet.
– Damage is typically limited to the area where the water leaked.
– **Category 2: Grey Water**
– Water from a slightly contaminated source, such as a washing machine or dishwasher overflow.
– Damage can extend beyond the immediate area of the leak and may require disinfection.
– **Category 3: Black Water**
– Water from a highly contaminated source, such as sewage or floodwater.
– Poses a significant health risk and requires immediate attention.
– Damage can be extensive and often requires major repairs or renovations.