Categories of a Typical Water Damage.

4/10/2024 (Permalink)

Water damage can come from many different sources, whether it's from a broken water pipe in the home, or from a storm. Once the damage happens, it is important to understand the type of water damage that has occurred. These types of water are classified into three different categories.

Category 1: Clean water. Clean water does not pose a threat to humans. Examples of these are considered broken water pipes or overflowing sinks. 

Category 2: Contaminated or “gray water”. This category typically includes water from a toilet bowl with no feces, water coming in through hydrostatic pressure, or a sump pump failure.

Category 3: "Black" water. This is grossly contaminated and poses a substantial threat to humans. This category includes sewage, water from rising rivers, any outside water source, or water containing heavy bacteria and fungi.

In conclusion, recognizing the various sources of water damage is vital. Equally in importance is having a plan of who to call when water damage hits your property. Here at SERVPRO®, we have seen it all, and are ready to help in your time of need.