If you live in New Jersey and have experienced water damage in your home or business due to old or faulty plumbing, flooding, or any other factor, it is important to assess the type and extent of the damage to determine whether water damage restoration is necessary.

Rust and the rotting of wood are two of the ways in which water can damage your property. In addition to causing harm to the structure of your home or furniture, water damage can also cause health problems. Depending on the type of water, it could be extremely toxic. There are three categories of water damage, “Category 1, ” Category 2, ” and “Category 3.” The water’s danger varies based on the category.

Category 1 damage generally comes from a clean water supply line. This category is the most benign to health, though it can be just as damaging to property as the other categories. Category 1 damage is caused by “Clean Water, ” which is named that way because it does not contain toxins such as bacteria or microorganisms. It is unlikely to cause any physical harm to human beings.

Category 2 damage comes from dishwashers, washing machines, clean toilet bowls and the like. This water is called “Grey Water.” It may contain some toxins and bacteria elements, and can cause slight illness or discomfort to human beings. Grey water is considered somewhat contaminated.

Seawater, groundwater, sewer water, and water from lakes, rivers or streams are all classified as “Black Water, ” which causes Category 3 damage. Black Water carries bacteria and fungi that can cause severe illness in humans. This category of water damage is the most urgent. If you have any reason to believe that there is Black Water in your home, you should call a professional as soon as possible.

No matter what the type of damage, it is important to have it fixed and addressed so that the problem does not become worse. There are different methods for water damage restoration. If the damage is minimal, it can sometimes be fixed by a building maintenance crew, or by the renter or homeowner themselves.

Any questionable damage, though, should be assessed by a water damage restoration professional. Only a professional knows for sure what type of water is present in your home. With special equipment and training, they can inform you of the possible health risks and the most effective solutions for repairing the damage. Specialists are listed in your local area phone book under “Fire and Water Restoration.” An Internet search for “Jersey Area Water Damage Restoration” should provide some results as well.

For more information about water damage visit our website Reno Water Damage.