Classifications of Water Damage

5/18/2021 (Permalink)

Overflowing toilet in Sioux Falls area home.

As a provider of water damage cleanup and restoration, SERVPRO of Sioux Falls has just about seen it all when it comes to water damage. As experienced experts in cleaning up after a water loss, we have seen water damage from just about every source, including ground water, water supply lines, and sewer backups. With water damage coming from multiple sources, the restoration industry has set guidelines for the classification of water damage categories.

Category 1 Water Damage: Clean Water Source

This would be the best case scenario for a water loss in your home. A category 1 water loss stems from a source of clean water such as a water supply line or an overflow from a sink. As this water is sewage and toxin free, a loss with Category 1 water damage is the easiest to treat. Depending on the materials affected, SERVPRO can often dry the structure in place with minimal demolition.

Category 2 Water Damage: Grey Water Source

A category 2 water loss can come from sources such as a washing machine or toilet. These sources may not always contain toxins or harmful pathogens, but as the source is not from a clean water supply line, appropriate steps must be taken with regards to disinfection. Most materials will be able to be dried in place without demolition, but will need to be treated with the proper disinfectant.

Category 3 Water Damage: Black Water Source

A category 3 water loss is from a source of water than is grossly contaminated. Black water can contain pathogens, bacteria, and fungi. A common source of a category 3 water loss would be as sewage line backup. Other sources such as flooding or ground water may occur. When your home has been effected by a category 3 water loss, it is important to call a professional like SERVPRO of Sioux Falls immediately to begin the extraction and decontamination of the affected areas to minimalist health effects. When contents and structures, such as carpet and pad, are affected with Black Water, they need to be replaced.