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Water Damage Categories as per the Insurance Industry

by Hassan

Water damage in your home can be quite costly. Most homeowners are unaware of the different types of water damage that exist, so it is important to know what they are and how much each type costs you. The insurance industry has categorized water damage into five main categories: clean water, greywater, blackwater, sewage backup, and storm surge/surf overflow. Knowing these categories will help you understand what types of water damages your policy covers. If a problem arises with any one category, you will have the appropriate coverage for it.

Clean Water:

– Clean water damage is when you have standing or flooded with clear water, including rainwater, melted snow, drinkable tap water, and some forms of condensation (humidity). Since most homeowners’ policies cover this type of damage, there is a minimal cost, and the cleanup is usually what is outlined in your policy.

Greywater:

– When you have flooded with greywater that contains soap, detergents, or other light contaminants, then you will most likely experience a little more expensive clean up than if it was clean water damage. This is because of the extra work involved to get rid of the contaminants. Most insurance companies will not cover this type of damage; however, some may provide coverage under certain circumstances.

Black Water:

– Blackwater is when you have been flooded with contaminated water or waste originating from humans and animals such as urine, feces, dirt, and mud. This type of water damage can contain harmful microorganisms and parasites. This type of damage is the most expensive water damage to clean up. Not only will the flooded area need to be dried out, but all surfaces must be disinfected because black water poses serious health hazards if not properly cleaned up. Most insurance companies do not cover this type of damage.

Sewage Backup:

– Sewage backup is when you have flooded with water from a septic tank, grease trap, or sewer line. This may contain harmful microorganisms and parasites as well as unsanitary waste. This type of water damage falls under the same category as blackwater because it is both contaminated and dirty. Most insurance companies do not cover this type of damage satta matka.

Storm Surge/Surf Overflow:

– When you have flooded with storm surge or surf overflow from coastal storms and hurricanes, the water is considered to be greywater; however, if this water runs through a sewer line and enters your home as sewage backup, then you will need to take extra precautions as this water can be hazardous and damaging to your home. Most insurance companies do not cover this type of damage.

Suppose you experience a flooded basement or any area in your home. In that case, it is essential to take care of the problem immediately and stick to what is outlined in your policy so that you don’t spend unnecessary money and time on the cleanup process.

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