Water Damage: Causes and Types

Water damage is a serious problem that can cause extensive damage to your home or business. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including storms, burst pipes, and flooding.

Causes of Water Damage

• Storms: Heavy rains, hurricanes, and floods can all cause water damage. Water can enter your home through the roof, windows, or doors.
• Burst pipes: Burst pipes are a common cause of water damage. They can be caused by freezing temperatures, corrosion, or faulty installation.
• Flooding: Flooding can occur when rivers or streams overflow their banks, or when heavy rains overwhelm storm drains. Flooding can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses.

Types of Water Damage

There are two main types of water damage:

• Clean water damage: Clean water damage is caused by water that is free of contaminants. This type of water damage is typically caused by burst pipes or leaking appliances.
• Dirty water damage: Dirty water damage is caused by water that contains contaminants, such as sewage or floodwater. This type of water damage can be more serious than clean water damage, as it can pose a health hazard.

What is the Legal Definition of Water Damage?

The legal definition of water damage varies from state to state. However, in general, water damage is defined as damage to property caused by water that enters the property from outside sources.