The 3 Categories of Water Damage

2/1/2023 (Permalink)

Water damage can be categorized into three categories.

Water damage is the most common type of insurance claim. It can get ugly fast, and it's important to understand the risks involved when dealing with water damage. To help you better understand how to handle water-related issues, we've broken the three categories of water damage for you here:

Why there are 3 Categories of Water Damage

Water damage can be caused by a variety of reasons, sources, and events. For example, you might have a pipe burst in your home or business that causes extensive water damage to the structure and its contents. Or perhaps you're experiencing an emergency situation such as flooding due to heavy rain or snow melt. Whatever the case may be, there are three main categories of water damage: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3.

It is important to understand the different categories of water damage in case of a loss in your own home or business. Knowing how the various sources of water damage are categorized into 3 categories can assist you in making the proper decisions to keep yourself, your family, or your employees safe after a water damage event.

Category 1 - Clean Water

Category 1 water damage is the least serious type of water-related damage. Category 1 water comes from a sanitary source and is referred to as "Clean Water." This type of water is considered clean and safe for use in your home. However, it may still cause damage and mold growth if left untreated.

Here are some examples of Category 1 sources:

• Toilet Tanks
• Water Supply Lines
• Melting Ice/Snow
• Rainwater

Category 2 - Grey Water

Category 2, also known as "Grey Water" is the second highest level of water damage. This category includes significantly contaminated water that may cause discomfort if you come in contact with it. Category 2 sources include:

• Dishwasher Leaks
• Washing Machine Leaks
• Overflowing Toilet Bowl
• Aquarium Water

Category 3 - Black Water

Category 3 water damage is the most serious type of water damage. It's also known as "Black Water," and it's considered grossly contaminated. All materials that come in contact with Category 3 sources must be removed and replaced.

Examples of Category 3 water sources include:

• Sewage
• Floodwaters
• Seawaters

In conclusion, water damage can be categorized into three categories: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3. Each category has a different risk and damage level. For example, if you are dealing with a small amount of water damage from a water supply line (Category 1), you don't need to worry about being exposed to anything harmful. However, if your home or business is affected by heavy flooding or a sewage loss (Category 3), it's best that you leave the property immediately and hire professional restoration services to help mitigate the damage.