Water damage is a common problem that can cause significant damage to your home or business. If you experience water damage, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and promote faster recovery. Here is what you need to know about assessing and dealing with specific types of water damage:

### Types of Water Damage

**Category 1: Clean Water**
– Originates from a sanitary source (e.g., broken water pipe)
– Does not pose an immediate health hazard

**Category 2: Gray Water**
– Originates from a contaminated source (e.g., dishwasher overflow)
– Contains bacteria and other contaminants

**Category 3: Black Water**
– Originates from a severely contaminated source (e.g., sewage backup)
– Contains harmful microorganisms and can pose serious health hazards

### Assessing the Damage

**Visual Inspection:**
– Look for visible signs of water damage, such as wet walls, floors, or ceilings.
– Check for discoloration, warping, or bulging materials.

**Moisture Meter:**
– This device can measure moisture content in walls, floors, and other surfaces.
– Helps identify hidden damage that may not be apparent from a visual inspection.

### Dealing with Specific Damage

**Wet Walls and Ceilings:**
– Drywall and plasterboard can be damaged beyond repair.
– If possible, remove and replace damaged sections.
– For minor damage, dry with fans and dehumidifiers.

**Wet Floors:**
– Remove any standing water and wet carpeting.
– Dry hardwood floors with fans and dehumidifiers.
– Laminate and vinyl flooring may need to be replaced.

**Electrical Systems:**
– Water damage can compromise electrical wiring, posing a safety hazard.
– Call a qualified electrician to assess damage and make repairs.

### How to Know if Water Damage is Permanent?

– **Drywall and Plasterboard:** If exposed to water for extended periods or becomes severely damaged, it may be impossible to restore.
– **Wood Flooring:** Hardwood floors can retain moisture and warp, causing permanent damage if not dried promptly.
– **Electrical Systems:** Water damage can cause corrosion and short circuits, resulting in permanent damage to electrical components.