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Understanding Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Differences from Flood Damage

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can strike homes and businesses due to various factors, including:

  • Leaking pipes or appliances
  • Flooding from heavy rainfall
  • Burst water heaters
  • Roof leaks

Types of Water Damage

Depending on the source and severity, water damage can be classified into three categories:

Category 1: Clean Water

  • Originates from sanitary sources (e.g., broken water pipes, leaking faucets)
  • Clean and non-hazardous, posing low risks to health

Category 2: Grey Water

  • Emanates from non-sewage sources (e.g., dishwashers, washing machines, sump pumps)
  • Contains contaminants and bacteria, requiring professional sanitization

Category 3: Black Water

  • Comes from sources containing sewage, bacteria, and other pathogens
  • Highly hazardous, requiring immediate professional attention to prevent illness

Is Water Damage the Same as Flood Damage?

While both involve water, flood damage refers specifically to damage caused by rising water levels from external sources, such as overflowing rivers or storm surges. Water damage, on the other hand, can have various causes, including those mentioned above. However, if flooding leads to water intrusion into a building, it can be classified as water damage.