Causes of Water Damage
Water damage to property can result from a variety of sources, including:
- Broken pipes
- Leaking roofs
- Flooding due to heavy rainfall or natural disasters
- Overflowing appliances (e.g., washing machines, dishwashers)
- Humidity
Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be classified into three main categories:
- Category 1: Clean water that originates from a sanitary source, such as a broken water pipe or a leaking roof.
- Category 2: Grey water that originates from a non-sewage source, such as a washing machine overflow or a flooded basement.
- Category 3: Black water that originates from a contaminated source, such as sewage backup or floodwater from a river or lake.
Water Damage vs. Flood Damage
While water damage and flood damage often overlap, they are distinct in their origins and implications.
Water damage typically refers to damage caused by leaks, burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, or other localized sources. It may affect specific areas of a property, such as a single room or a section of the roof.
Flood damage, on the other hand, refers to extensive water damage caused by a body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean, overflowing its banks or breaching its containment. It typically affects larger areas, such as entire neighborhoods or towns.