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Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Legal Definition

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can occur due to various factors, including:

  • Burst pipes
  • Leaking roofs
  • Overflowing appliances
  • Natural disasters (e.g., floods, hurricanes)
  • Faulty plumbing

Types of Water Damage

Water damage is classified into three categories based on the source of the water:

  • Category 1 (Clean Water): Originates from a sanitary source, such as a broken water pipe or an overflowing bathtub.
  • Category 2 (Gray Water): Contains contaminants from sources like dishwashers, washing machines, or sinks.
  • Category 3 (Black Water): Highly contaminated and poses significant health risks. Examples include sewage backup or floodwater.

Legal Definition of Water Damage

The legal definition of water damage varies depending on jurisdiction. Generally, it encompasses any physical or structural damage to property caused by the presence of excess water, regardless of the source.

It’s crucial to promptly mitigate water damage to prevent further deterioration of the property and the potential growth of mold and mildew. Professional water damage restoration services can assess the damage, remove excess water, and perform necessary repairs to restore the property to a safe and habitable condition.