Category 1, 2, and 3 Water Damage: Health Hazards & Insurance Rules
Category 1: Clean Water Intrusion
Originates from broken municipal supply lines, failed faucet supply tubes, or clean rainwater through a fresh roof puncture. If extracted quickly within 24 hours, porous drywall and carpet can often be completely salvaged.
Category 2: Grey Water (Significant Contamination)
Originates from appliance overflows (washing machines, dishwashers with detergent) or aquarium breaks. Can cause illness if ingested. Saturated carpet pads must be discarded, though carpets can sometimes be decontaminated if addressed immediately.
Category 3: Black Water (Severe Health Risk)
Raw sewage backups, overland bayou floodwaters, or any Category 1 water that has stood stagnant for more than 48 hours. All saturated porous materials (drywall, insulation, carpet, wood trim) must be cut out and discarded under strict biohazard containment.
Suspect Active Moisture or Mold?
Our emergency crews provide non-invasive moisture mapping across Houston.