**What is Water Damage?**
Water damage refers to the detrimental effects resulting from the exposure of a structure, materials, or possessions to water. It can arise from various sources and manifest itself in different forms.
## Causes of Water Damage
* **Natural Causes:** Floods, heavy rainfall, overflowing rivers, and snowmelt.
* **Plumbing Failures:** Broken pipes, faulty appliances, and clogged drains.
* **Roof Leaks:** Damaged shingles, missing tiles, or clogged gutters.
* **Sewer Backups:** Blockages in sewer lines that cause wastewater to flow back into buildings.
* **Condensation:** Excess moisture in the air that condenses on surfaces, such as windows and walls.
## Types of Water Damage
**Category 1: Clean Water Damage**
* Originates from a clean source, such as a broken drinking water pipe or a clean roof leak.
* Poses relatively low health risks.
**Category 2: Gray Water Damage**
* Contains contaminants from dishwashers, washing machines, or sinks.
* May pose some health risks and requires prompt cleanup.
**Category 3: Black Water Damage**
* Originates from heavily contaminated sources, such as sewage backups or floodwater.
* Poses significant health hazards and requires immediate professional attention.