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Water Damage: Causes, Types, and Legal Definition

Causes of Water Damage

Water damage is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes include:

*

  • Broken or leaking pipes
  • Faulty appliances
  • Flooding
  • Heavy rainfall
  • Snowmelt
  • Sewer backups
  • Burst water heater tanks
  • Leaky roofs
  • Condensation

Types of Water Damage

Water damage can be classified into two main types:

* **Clean water damage** is caused by water that is free of contaminants. This type of damage is typically caused by broken pipes or flooding.
* **Black water damage** is caused by water that is contaminated with sewage or other harmful substances. This type of damage is often caused by sewer backups or flooding.

What is the Legal Definition of Water Damage?

The legal definition of water damage varies from state to state. However, most states define water damage as any damage to property that is caused by water, regardless of the source of the water. This includes damage to buildings, personal property, and land.