Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to various factors, such as:
- Leaks from plumbing fixtures or appliances
- Natural disasters, such as flooding or hurricanes
- Broken pipes or water lines
- Roof leaks due to aging or storm damage
- Faulty drains or downspouts
Types of Water Damage
Based on the source and extent of damage, water damage is classified into three main types:
- Category 1: Clean Water – Originating from a sanitary source, such as a burst water supply pipe or overflowing sink.
- Category 2: Gray Water – Contaminated with dirt, chemicals, or bodily fluids, originating from sources like washing machines or sewage backup. It poses a potential health hazard.
- Category 3: Black Water – Severely contaminated and can cause severe illness or infection. Originates from sources like flooding, sewage backup, or standing water with microbial growth.
Legal Definition of Water Damage
Legally, water damage is defined as any physical loss or damage to property caused by water regardless of the source. It can include damage to structures, contents, personal belongings, and even neighboring properties.