Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Classifications

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to various factors, including:

• Leaks from plumbing fixtures, appliances, or roofs
• Flooding caused by heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or dam failures
• Burst pipes due to freezing temperatures or corrosion
• Basement seepage or groundwater infiltration
• Human error or equipment malfunctions leading to spills or overflows

Types of Water Damage

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

1. Clean Water (Category 1)

• Comes from a sanitary source, such as a broken water main or a leaking faucet
• Poses a relatively low health risk but can still cause significant damage to property

2. Gray Water (Category 2)

• Originates from sources that may contain contaminants, such as dishwasher or washing machine overflows
• Can pose a moderate health risk and requires prompt attention to prevent microbial growth

3. Black Water (Category 3)

• Comes from severely contaminated sources, such as sewage backups or floodwaters
• Poses a serious health risk due to the presence of pathogens and toxins