Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Flood Damage Comparisons
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can occur due to various reasons, such as:
- Leaking pipes or fixtures
- Broken appliances (e.g., dishwashers, washing machines)
- Flooding from heavy rainfall or storms
- Hurricane or storm surges
- Roof leaks
- Burst water heaters
- Groundwater seepage
Types of Water Damage
Water damage can be classified into three categories:
Category 1: Clean Water Damage
Caused by relatively clean water sources such as:
- Burst pipes
- Leaking appliances
Category 2: Grey Water Damage
Originates from sources with some contamination:
- Toilet overflows
- Washing machine overflow
Category 3: Black Water Damage
Involves severely contaminated water such as:
- Sewage backups
- Floodwaters
Is Water Damage the Same as Flood Damage?
While both involve water, there are key differences:
Key Differences between Water and Flood Damage
| Characteristic |
Water Damage |
Flood Damage |
| Water Source |
Local leaks, appliances, or groundwater |
External flooding from rivers, lakes, or storms |
| Coverage |
Usually covered by homeowner's insurance |
Typically requires separate flood insurance |