According to the IICRC, an international organization dedicated to restoration and cleaning standards, there are four water and flood damage classes. Restoration companies use this classification system to determine the amount of water they will be dealing with, the extent of absorption and damage, and how long it will take for the property to dry before they can begin with the repairs.
Class 1 Water Damage
You can think of Class 1 damage as the best-case scenario for water damages. There is minimal water absorption in this classification of water damage, and few highly porous materials (only about 5% or less) have been impacted. Because Class 1 damage is usually caused by clean water, this means there is little to no contamination. Class 1 damage is fairly easy to repair once the water is removed.
Class 2 Water Damage
The next classification of water damage is Class 2. Class 2 water damage is similar to Class 1 but occurs when more porous materials – between 5 and 40% – are present in the impacted area. Water damage of this classification often happens when a pipe bursts or leaks inside of walls, soaking drywall or insulation. Typically, more time is needed to remove the damaged material as well as to ensure that all structures underneath have dried completely.
Class 3 Water Damage
Class 3 water damage is usually caused by a major weather event or water main break. When water damage is classified as Class 3, that means that the structure has had significant damage from flood water, storm damage, or other major water events. Walls, floors, and other areas are likely soaked through, and more than 40% of the impacted area consists of porous materials. Aside from regular clean-up and restoration, disinfecting might be needed since the water may or may not be clean. This makes repairing a home after Class 3 water damage a time-consuming affair.
Class 4 Water Damage
Finally, when both porous and non-porous materials have absorbed large quantities of water, you have Class 4 damage. You often see Class 4 damage as a result of flooding due to a storm or other major event. A classification of 4 means that even the home’s wooden structures are compromised, and it is a time-consuming and complex tax to get the structure completely dry. It is also often very costly. This is why Class 4 water damage has to be handled by a restoration company with enough experience and specialized equipment.
Water damage of any type can be difficult for rental property owners and their tenants, too. They have to rely on professionals to help get things back in good working order. If your rental property needs more time and attention than you have to spare, give us a call. Our expert Leander property managers will work with you and your tenants to get your property restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact us online today.
