### What is Water Damage?
Water damage pertains to any form of harm caused to a property, structure, or personal belongings due to water exposure. In the absence of proper remediation, it can lead to severe consequences, including structural damage, health risks, and financial losses.
### Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can be triggered by various factors, including:
– **Plumbing failures:** Leaking pipes, faulty fixtures, or clogged drains can discharge excessive water.
– **Weather events:** Heavy rainfall, flooding, or snowmelt can seep into buildings through cracks or weak spots.
– **Roof damage:** Damaged or missing shingles, gutters, or flashing allow water to penetrate the property.
– **Appliance malfunctions:** Leaking or overflowing household appliances, such as dishwashers or washing machines, can contribute to water damage.
– **Human error:** Accidental spills, overflows, or unattended sources of water can also lead to water damage.
### Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be categorized based on the source of the water and the level of contamination:
– **Category 1 (Clear Water)**: This type of damage is caused by clean sources, such as broken water pipes or rainwater. It poses a relatively low risk of contamination.
– **Category 2 (Gray Water)**: Gray water is contaminated with bacteria and microorganisms from sources like dishwashers and washing machines. It presents a higher risk of health hazards.
– **Category 3 (Black Water)**: Black water contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and sewage. It poses the greatest risk to human health and requires immediate professional remediation.