The Three Categories of Water Damage

When it comes to the types of water damage that cause damage to buildings, there are three categories. If you have any water damage and call a restoration company and/or an insurance company, an assessment of the water's contamination level will be required.

Per the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration:

"The following recommendations assume water-related storm damage to residential or light commercial structures. For recommendations regarding restoration of major commercial properties and building assemblies, it is important to consult with professionals who have specific training and experience in this area.

Whether insured or not, it is important for property owners to document damage with photographs or video, and immediately, to begin loss mitigation procedures themselves; or hire a qualified contractor to do this on their behalf. It is totally inappropriate to put off mitigation while waiting for an insurance claims representative to arrive on the scene to evaluate the loss. By that time, in all probability sufficient time will have passed to grow and amplify microorganisms, which may not be covered by insurance. Loss mitigation is defined by insurance policies as "reasonable and prudent measures designed to preserve, protect and secure property from further damage," including microbial growth and amplification."

Here is a quick FYI for you just in case you or anyone you know has to deal with water damage.