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
The water damage best-case scenario would be Class 1 damage. There is minimal water absorption in this classification of water damage, and few highly porous materials (only about 5% or less) have been impacted. There is also little to no contamination in Class 1 damage since this is typically caused by clean water. Once the water is removed, Class 1 damages can usually be repaired quickly.
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. This classification of water damage usually occurs when there is leaking or bursting of pipes inside of walls, soaking drywall, or insulation. These situations need more time to be addressed since the damaged materials have to be removed and the structures underneath have to dry completely.
Class 3 Water Damage
Class 3 water damage is usually caused by a major weather event or water main break. When the structure has significant floodwater, storm damage, or damage from a major water event, it is classified as Class 3 water damage. 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. This means even the home’s wooden structures are compromised, and drying the entire structure can be very time-consuming and complex. It is also often very costly. When it is a Class 4 water damage, it is a must to hire a restoration company with adequate experience and specialized equipment to get the job done correctly.
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 Atlanta property managers will work with you and your tenants to get your property restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact us online today.