Category 1   Clean Water   

Water originates from a source that does not pose substantial harm to humans.

[Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) not necessarily needed for restoration technicians]

EXAMPLES: Broken water line, toilet tank or bowl (no urine/fecal material), tub or sink overflows (no contaminants).

Water Damage caused by a Frozen Pipe

 Water Damage caused by a Frozen Pipe

Category 2   Grey Water

Water that contains a significant degree of chemical, biological and/or physical contamination.

[PPE may be advised for restoration technicians]

EXAMPLES:  Water softener recharge water, broken aquariums, punctured water beds, overflows from toilets with urine-not fecal material, discharges from washing machines or dishwashers, sump pump failures and fire suppression systems.

Category 3   Black Water

Grossly unsanitary water, containing pathogenic agents arising from sewage or other contaminated water sources.  Water that originating from a source that poses substantial threat to human health.

[PPE highly advised for restoration technicians]

EXAMPLES:  Ground surface water that has gone through soils, SEWAGE, and floodwater.

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Water Damage Caused by a Sewer Back Up