Water Damage: Causes, Types, and the Difference from Flood Damage

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage can be a major concern for homeowners and businesses alike. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Plumbing leaks
• Flooding
• Broken appliances
• Frozen pipes
• Heavy rainfall
• Water seepage from outside sources

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be classified into three main types:

• Category 1: Clean water damage, such as from a burst pipe or a broken appliance
• Category 2: Gray water damage, such as from a dishwasher overflow or a toilet backup
• Category 3: Black water damage, such as from sewage backup or floodwater

Is Water Damage the Same as Flood Damage?

Water damage and flood damage are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two. Water damage can occur from any source of water, while flood damage is specifically caused by overflowing bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, or oceans.