Are you dealing with water damage in your Summit rental property, and are you looking for a restoration company to help with the clean-up? To ensure that you are hiring a company with relevant expertise, you should first understand the different classifications of water damage and how that will determine your repair bill, as well as the total repair time. When you are knowledgeable about water damage classification, you can make more informed decisions throughout the restoration process.
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. Because Class 1 damage is usually caused by clean water, this means there is little to no contamination. Most of the time, Class 1 damage can be repaired as soon as 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. 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. A Class 3 classification of water damage means that floodwater, storm damage, or other major water event has had a significant impact on the structure. Walls, floors, and other areas are likely soaked through, and more than 40% of the impacted area consists of porous materials. The water may or may not be clean, meaning disinfecting could be required in addition to regular clean-up and restoration. 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. Class 4 damage is typical after 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 also usually costs more to repair and restore. 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 Summit property managers will work with you and your tenants to get your property restored as quickly and efficiently as possible. Contact us online today.
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