Water Damage: Causes and Types

Causes

Water damage can occur due to a variety of circumstances, including:

• Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and floods
• Plumbing leaks
• Burst pipes
• Clogged drains
• Roof leaks

Types

Water damage is classified into three main categories:

Category 1: Clean Water Damage

• Caused by a clean water source, such as a broken pipe or leaking faucet
• May lead to mold growth if not addressed promptly

Category 2: Gray Water Damage

• Caused by water that contains contaminants, such as from a washing machine overflow or sewage backup
• Poses a greater health risk than Category 1 water

Category 3: Black Water Damage

• Caused by water that is heavily contaminated with bacteria or other hazardous materials
• Can cause serious health problems and requires immediate professional attention

Root Cause

The underlying cause of water damage often stems from:

• Neglect or lack of maintenance
• Improper installation or repair of plumbing fixtures and appliances
• Natural disasters or extreme weather events