Water Categories

7/21/2021 (Permalink)

When it comes to water damage, our team comes prepared for the 3 different categories of water. Three? Yes, three different categories of water, These different levels represent the severity and toxicity of the situation. This spans from a normal mitigation job to biohazard.

There are three different categories that a water loss is classified in depending on the type of water. 

• Category 1 Water - Examples are broken water supply lines, tub or sink overflows, or appliance malfunctions that involve water supply lines. Category 1 is from a source of water that does not pose a substantial threat to humans and is classified as "clean water". 
• Category 2 Water - Examples are toilet bowls with urine (no feces), sump pump failures, seepage due to hydrostatic failure, and water discharge from dishwashers or washing machines. This source is known as "grey water".Refers to a source of water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological or physical contaminants and causes discomfort or sickness when consumed or even exposed to.  This type carries microorganisms and nutrients of micro-organisms. 
•  Category 3 Water - This category includes water sources from sewage, seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, ground surface water, or standing water. Category 2 Water or Grey Water that is not promptly removed from the structure and or has remained stagnant may be re-classified as Category 3 Water. This is known as "black water" and is grossly unsanitary. This water contains unsanitary agents, harmful bacteria, and fungi, causing severe discomfort or sickness. Type 3 categories are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment.