Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Legal Definition

Water damage, a prevalent concern in homes and commercial properties, results from the inappropriate intrusion of water into a structure.

Causes of Water Damage

• Broken pipes: Deteriorated or frozen pipes can rupture, leading to significant water leakage.
• Roof leaks: Damaged or old roofing materials can allow rainwater to seep into the property.
• Foundation cracks: Cracks in the foundation allow groundwater to infiltrate the building.
• Flooding: Natural disasters or heavy rainfall can cause water to overwhelm drainage systems, resulting in flooding.
• Appliance malfunctions: Leaking dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can contribute to water damage.

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be categorized based on the source:

• Clean water: Originates from a sanitary source, such as a broken pipe or a leaking faucet.
• Gray water: Contaminated with mild pollutants, such as soap or food particles, from sinks, dishwashers, and washing machines.
• Black water: Heavily polluted, containing harmful bacteria and sewage, commonly resulting from flooding or sewage backups.

Legal Definition of Water Damage

Legally, water damage is defined as any damage or harm caused to a property or its contents due to the intrusion of water from external or internal sources. This includes both accidental and intentional flooding.