Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to various reasons, including:
- Natural disasters such as storms, hurricanes, and flooding
- Plumbing leaks (burst pipes, dripping faucets, etc.)
- Roof leaks
- Washing machine or dishwasher overflow
- Neglect or poor maintenance
Types of Water Damage
Water damage is categorized into three primary types:
- Category 1 (Clean Water): Originates from a clean source, such as a broken water pipe or a bathtub overflow.
- Category 2 (Gray Water): Contaminated with microorganisms or chemicals, such as dishwasher or washing machine discharge.
- Category 3 (Black Water): Heavily contaminated with pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and other hazardous substances, such as sewage.
Is Water Damage the Same as Flood Damage?
While both involve water, water damage and flood damage are distinct:
- Water Damage: Refers to damage caused by any type of water, regardless of the source or quantity.
- Flood Damage: Specifically describes damage resulting from an overflowing body of water, such as a river or ocean during a flood event.