Understanding Contamination Levels for Commercial Water Damage

3/31/2020 (Permalink)

If the water originated from a broken water supply line, you have very little toxicity

Understanding Contamination Levels for Commercial Water Damage

If your business sustains water damage, it’s smart to begin the cleanup process swiftly. Water damage is affected by the level of hazardous material present in the water. Flood water, for instance, is more toxic than a dishwasher leak. This overview of water toxicity levels may help you assess the damage and begin the restoration process.

Category 1

This level, also known as clean water, reflects the least toxic category. If the water originated from the following supply-line sources, you have very little toxicity:

• Broken water supply line
• Overflowing bathtub or sink
• Leaking ice maker
• Rain entering a damaged roof
• Leaking water heater
  

Low-toxicity water can still cause damage, so it is smart to contact your insurance agent to confirm the damage will be covered by your conventional insurance policy.

Category 2

This level of contamination, known as gray water, describes a moderate degree of chemical, biological, or physical toxicity. Less hazardous than flood water, Category 2 water may contain food, dirt, or grease. Water leaking from under your sink or a shower drain would fit in this category. Your commercial insurance will generally cover this level of cleanup and restoration.

Category 3

This high-level contamination is referred to as black water. It includes water from any source that could possibly contain seawater, sewage, chemicals, or flood water. This unsanitary water can be toxic to pets and humans. Category 3 contamination should be cleaned up by a water remediation specialist as soon as possible.

If your water damage is caused by flood water, it would not be covered by your conventional insurance policy. You would need to have had a government-issued flood policy in place at the time of your damage to obtain coverage. It’s important to contact your agent for help assessing which type of insurance you need.
When your West Miami, FL, business sustains storm damage or any type of water damage, it presents a disruptive and unsettling time for your company. Once you have evaluated your contamination level, you are equipped to implement the best cleanup strategy and return your operation to business as usual.