Water damage check: how serious is it?
Answer three quick questions about where the water came from, how long it has been there and what it soaked into. The check gives you a likely water category and a risk reading.
The check uses the same ideas a restoration crew uses on its first walk-through. The source of the water sets its likely category, from clean to grossly unsanitary. Time matters because the EPA advises drying within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold, and gray water left more than about 48 hours can degrade to black water. Materials matter because drywall, carpet pad and insulation hold water very differently from tile or concrete.
At a glance
- Takes
- About 30 seconds
- Returns
- Water category, risk, next step
- Phones
- Answered 24/7
This check gives a general reading, not an inspection. A crew lead confirms the category and the drying plan on site with moisture meters.
How to read the result
The water category tells you how contaminated the water is likely to be. Category 1 is clean water, such as a broken supply line or rain. Category 2 is gray water, such as washer or dishwasher discharge or AC condensate. Category 3 is black water, such as sewage or rising flood water, and it calls for protective gear and removal of most porous materials.
The risk reading combines the category with time and materials. Low means a fast dry-out is likely if you act now. Moderate means materials may already be swelling or near the mold window. High means tear-out and mold are likely and you should call us right away at (786) 947-0034.
What the check cannot tell you
The check only knows what you tell it. It cannot see water that has moved inside a wall, under tile or into the unit below, and it cannot measure moisture. Only meters and thermal imaging on site can show how far the water really went.
It is also not a mold test and not an insurance decision. If you smell something musty or see growth, have it inspected. If you plan to file a claim, take photos now and report the loss to your insurer, because a result here does not replace either step.
About the check
Is water from my AC drain line clean water?
No. AC condensate is listed as a Category 2 example, so it is treated as gray water. It can also soak walls and carpet slowly, which is why AC closet leaks often turn up as stains or musty smells.
Why does the time wet change the result so much?
Time is the biggest driver of extra damage. After 24 to 48 hours mold can start, swollen drywall usually has to come out and gray water can degrade to black water.
My result was low. Do I still need a crew?
Maybe not, if the wet area is small, the water was clean and you can dry it fast. If anything soaked into drywall, carpet pad or a cabinet base, call us so the crew can check it with a meter.
Water where it should not be? Call now.
A person answers every call, day or night. Tell us what got wet and when it started, and we will tell you what happens next.