Water damage is a serious problem that can impact both residential and commercial properties. It can be caused by a variety of factors, and the type of damage can vary depending on the source of the water. If you are dealing with water damage, it is important to understand the causes, types, and legal definition of water damage.
Causes of Water Damage
Water damage can be caused by a variety of factors, some of the most common include:
- Broken pipes
- Leaking roofs
- Clogged drains
- Flooding
- Foundation cracks
Types of Water Damage
The type of water damage that occurs can vary depending on the source of the water. Some of the most common types of water damage include:
- Clean water damage: Water that is free of contaminants, such as rain water or water from a broken pipe.
- Gray water damage: Water that contains contaminants, such as from a washing machine or dishwasher.
- Black water damage: Water that contains sewage or other contaminants, such as from a backed-up toilet or flood water.
Legal Definition of Water Damage
The legal definition of water damage can vary depending on the jurisdiction, however, it generally refers to any damage to property caused by water. This can include damage to the structure of the property, the contents of the property, or both.
In some cases, water damage may be considered a covered loss under an insurance policy. However, it is important to note that not all types of water damage are covered by insurance. For example, flood damage is often not covered by insurance.