Water Categories

10/1/2021 (Permalink)

We will respond quickly to your emergency and have the expertise to handle your restoration needs no matter the size of the job.

The different categories of water refer to the source of the water damage and other potential contaminants, including what the water may come in contact with. Water cleanliness plays a major role in the risk that the water poses to anyone or anything that it comes in contact with. If your home or business has recently suffered water damage or a water related disaster, determining the classes of water loss is an important step in beginning water damage restoration. Identifying the classes of water loss enables restoration professionals to formulate a plan of action based on your home's specific needs. 

Not all water damage is created the same. While every time your property or belongings come in contact with water there is a potential risk for high costs associated to it, the cost could significantly vary depending on the category of water damage that your home or commercial property has sustained. Having an overflowing sink is not the same as having a sewage leak! 

• Category 1 Water - 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 substantial threat to humans and classified as "clean water."
• Category 2 Water - 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 have 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 category are contaminated water sources that affect the indoor environment. 

Getting professional help immediately after the occurrence of water damage means reducing the cost of water clean-up and drying. The longer water damage sits unresolved, the worse the damage will be. SERVPRO of Spencer & Iowa Great Lakes team of professionals are available 24 hours a day 7 days a week and will respond quickly to any restoration emergency, whether it is water, fire or mold. Call our office at (712) 262-4379