The 3 Categories of Water Damage
Water is a major source of damage in both commercial and residential buildings. The ISO reports that water damage claims rank second in frequency, just after claims for wind and hail damage. When dealing with water damage, it’s crucial to consider various factors, including the category of the damage. The categories of water damage are based on where the water comes from and what it might contain, including any substances it contains. The cleanliness of the water determines the risk it poses to people and the things it contact with. According to the IICRC water classification, these categories reflect the level of contamination in water, taking into account its source and its quality after interacting with materials at the site. While they’re no longer officially recognized, many still use Clean, Grey, and Black Water to describe these categories, which helps in understanding how clean or contaminated each type is. The Different Categories of Water Damage When it comes to water damage, knowing the different categories can help you understand the situation better and what actions to take. The IICRC Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration (IICRC S500) outlines three categories of water damage: Category 1, Category 2, and Category 3. Category 1 Water Damage – Sanitary (“Clean Water”) Category 1 water damage is described as water that comes from a sanitary source and doesn’t pose a significant risk if touched or ingested. Examples of Category 1 water damage include water from: – Water supply lines – Melting ice or snow – Rainwater – Toilet tanks – Clean toilet bowls Because Category 1 water comes from a clean source and doesn’t pose a substantial risk, it’s often referred to as “clean water.” Restoration contractors can usually salvage and dry materials affected by Category 1 water damage, such as drywall, carpet, and
