3 Different Water Loss Categories

9/11/2019 (Permalink)

Water Damage Categories & Examples of Their Sources

Water has many benefits such as keeping us clean, hydrated, and mother nature relies on water for the earth to grow the fruits and vegetables we consume. Everyone knows the benefits we reap from water, but how often do we stop and think about the different impact it can have in unique situations? In the mitigation field, we see those impacts daily, a majority of the losses we respond to are in fact caused by what? Water. A simple leak caused by a dishwasher or overflowing bathtub may seem so simple, but if it isn't addressed promptly and correctly can quickly become a larger nuisance and can even be harmful to you and your loved ones.  Below are the different 3 Categories of water and some of their different sources.

Category 1: 

Cat 1 also known as clean water, originates from a sanitary source and doesn't pose a substantial risk. 

Examples: ice, snow, or rainwater. A broken water line, an overflowing sink, or bathtub.

Category 2: 

Cat 2 water also known as grey water is water that is contaminated and poses a potential risk of causing harm to humans if contact is made

Examples: washer machines & dishwashers overflows, toilets that contain only liquid contaminates, &  category 1 water that was not promptly been removed can be reclassified as category 2 water.

Category 3:

Cat 3 water also known as black water is grossly unsanitary and can be extremely harmful if contact is made.

Examples: Toilet backflows that originate from beyond the toilet trap, sump pump failures, flooding of rivers, & mold-contaminated water