Is Category 2 Water Damage Serious?

12/15/2020 (Permalink)

Category 2 water damage inside an Acworth, GA office

Water damage is common in commercial buildings. In fact, it’s one of the most routine calls to plumbers in Acworth, GA. If there is a water pipe repair needed, you should shut off the water immediately and remove the standing water as soon as possible. However, if the water is contaminated, you should wait for a professional.

What Is Contaminated Water?

When you have a broken pipe, the type of damage will depend on the type of pipe. If it’s not from the water supply line, it should be considered a potential health hazard.
The safety of the water depends on its category. There are three basic categories of water damage:

• Category 1 – clean water
• Category 2 – unsafe water
• Category 3 – dangerous water

Is Category 1 Safe?
Category one is water directly from a water supply line. It should have no pathogens or unsafe chemicals in it. The only caveat to this is if the water supply to your business has been contaminated, such as when it's flooded in a major disaster.
Of course, category one still causes plenty of damage! You’ll need a water pipe repair before you can use that portion of your plumbing and must deal with the results of water damaging your building and its contents. That typically requires a professional water damage restoration company for the best results.

Why Is Category 2 a Hazard?
Category two water damage refers to sewer water not from a toilet. It won’t contain significant fecal matter but may contain urine. It also will have any pathogens or chemicals put into sinks and drains.

So, Category 3 Is the Worst?
Usually, yes. This is water damage from a flood or directly from the toilet, and it may contain human feces and sewage. It causes sickness and leaves a foul odor wherever it goes.
Fortunately, restoration companies have lots of experience with water pipe repair and have special disinfectants and sanitizers they use to clean up even the worst damage. In many cases, insurance will pay for the damage, but either way, it’s best to use a professional restorer to avoid allowing black mold to develop in hidden areas.