The Types of Water Damage Pollution

4/1/2020 (Permalink)

If you do research on water damage, you’ll likely come across terms such as “black water” and “clear water” to describe the mess left behind. While the implication is that clear water is less dangerous than black water, the reality is that they can both cause extensive disrepair to your home or office.

Because all three categories of water damage have their own cautions and considerations, we’re explaining their differences so you can be educated and prepared.

Categories of Water Damage

Category 1: “Clear water” is the first classification, which covers water that has originated from a clean source. This water will be free from contamination and is normally sourced from a broken water supply or pipe, a faucet leak, or rainwater that’s come directly from a rainfall. While not recommended, category 1 water is not harmful if consumed.

Category 2: The second category, grey water, is a bit more serious. This classification refers to wastewater generated from regular household water sources such as appliance overflow or a flooding of sink or shower drains. Because of the many surfaces this water has come into contact with, category 2 water contains contamination and can cause illness if consumed.

Category 3: The most dangerous category, category 3 water is commonly known as black water. This water originates from sewage overflows, water that has remained stagnant and led to breeding bacteria or rising flood waters. Because it is heavily contaminated, category 3 water should be regarded with extreme caution and can cause illness or death if consumed.

Categories Can Change

Though water categories seem fairly straightforward, water that starts as one category can easily advance to another. Water that comes into contact with surfaces such as soil or contaminated areas will develop higher pollution levels, and water left standing will begin to breed harmful bacteria.

Because this is impossible to determine from looks alone, professional cleanup is essential to peace of mind and a properly restored property.

If your home or office has been affected by water damage of any category, SERVPRO® is staffed with a team of professionals that can help!