Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to various factors, including:
* Natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall
* Plumbing leaks or burst pipes
* Roof damage, leading to water infiltration
* Basement flooding due to poor drainage or groundwater seepage
* Appliance malfunctions, such as leaking washing machines or dishwashers
Types of Water Damage
Water damage is categorized into three types:
* **Category 1: Clean Water** – Caused by broken water lines or appliances, this type of water is generally clean and poses no significant health risks.
* **Category 2: Gray Water** – Originating from sinks, dishwashers, or toilets, gray water contains contaminants and bacteria, but its health risks are moderate.
* **Category 3: Black Water** – Sewer backups or flooding bring in black water, which is heavily contaminated and poses severe health hazards.
Categories of Water Damage
Water damage is further classified into three categories based on the extent and severity:
* **Class 1: Minor Damage** – Limited to a small area, typically caused by leaks or condensation. Damage can be repaired with minimal intervention.
* **Class 2: Moderate Damage** – Affects a larger area, requiring more extensive repairs. Walls and floors may need to be dried and treated for mold prevention.
* **Class 3: Major Damage** – Extensive water damage, often involving entire rooms or the entire building. Requires significant restoration and may necessitate structural repairs.