What is Category 1 Water Damage?

9/16/2018 (Permalink)

Pipe Break can cause a category 1 water loss

Category One water damage is caused by a leak involving clean water. While the affected area may not need to be disinfected, it is important to eliminate all standing water and thoroughly dry the area as soon as possible. Find out more about the origin and risks of a Category One leak.

Where Does Category 1 Water Come From?

There are two common sources of a Category One leak:

• Broken pipe
• Supply line

Exposure to clean leaking water can still cause primary water damage and set the stage for secondary damage such as mold in a commercial property. Handle these leaks just as quickly as you would a leak involving contaminated Category Two gray water or Category Three black water.

How Do You Clean Up Category 1 Water?

Depending on the size of the leak, you may use a mop, towels, a wet vac, or another method for pumping out water. Clean water should not contain pathogens, solid waste, or chemicals, and so the cleanup process is not involved as for a Category Two or Three leak. Leaks involving contaminated water call for cleaning and disinfection. It is still necessary to thoroughly dry the area exposed to excess water to prevent mold from forming.

What Are the Risks of a Category 1 Leak?

A Category One leak can still cause primary water damage and pose a risk of secondary. If water that starts out clean filters through a floor or ceiling, it will become Category Two water and disinfection will become necessary. It is important to address this type of leak as quickly as possible to prevent the situation from becoming more serious.

If you experience a leak of Category One clean water at a commercial property in St. Michael, MN, you may be able to perform cleanup yourself. If the leak is extensive, contact a commercial water damage restoration firm.

For more on St. Michael click here.