Categorizing Water Damage

8/2/2021 (Permalink)

When SERVPRO is confronted with a water damage job, there are many things to consider to make sure we move forward with the best plan. One of the things considered is the category of water damage we’re working with. Not all water damage jobs are equal, and each category is met with different precautions and procedures to yield the best outcome. It is also important for you as a homeowner to understand the category of water damage your property is facing to make sure everyone is safe and at a proper distance from any dangerous areas. Here’s some insight on the categories of water damage:

Category 1- Clean Water

These types of situations are leaks and floods of water that are not hazardous. This includes overflowing bathtubs, defective appliances like refrigerators, or a rainwater leak in the home. These are category 1 because the water poses no health risk.

Category 2- Grey Water

Greywater is when the water may contain some pollutants like urine, mold, or dirt that can be of a health risk if exposed to us. Leaks from a washing machine, clogged toilets with only urine, or overflowed aquariums can yield this category of water damage. This type of damage is recommended to be responded to immediately because this water can leave lasting effects on your home if not tended to quickly. 

Category 3- Black Water

This type of water damage contains very hazardous contaminants in the water requiring our workers to wear special protective gear to deal with these jobs. Clogged plumbing systems, flood runoff from lakes, oceans, or rivers, and sewer backups are all examples of black water category damage. In the event of this damage, it is imperative that action is taken immediately and everyone is evacuated from the affected areas. 

If you are ever confronted with any of these categories of water damage, call SERVPRO of Lake Forest South / Laguna Woods at our emergency service line to get help in making your property “Like it never even happened.” We are here to assist you in unpredicted events like this and will guide you through every step of the way. To learn more about water damage, check out our other blogs.