When dealing with water damage in your Ruskin rental property, a good restoration company can help you get things cleaned 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. There is also little to no contamination in Class 1 damage since this is typically caused by clean water. In most cases, once the water has been removed, Class 1 damage can be repaired fairly quickly.
Class 2 Water Damage
The next classification is Class 2 water damage. 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. The extent of water damage under this classification often happens when pipes inside of walls leak or burst, 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
On the other hand, Class 3 water damage is often brought about 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. 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. Class 4 damage is very noticeable after flooding, whether due to a storm or other major event. At this classification, the home’s wooden structures are compromised, making thorough drying of the structure time-consuming and complex. Not to mention, it is also usually very expensive. This is why Class 4 water damage has to be handled by a restoration company with enough experience and specialized equipment.
Any type of water damage can become a difficult experience for rental property owners and tenants. It is a good idea to rely on the professionals to help get things back to the way they were. If your rental property needs more time and attention than you have to spare, give us a call. Our expert Ruskin 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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