Category 3 Water Damage: Black Water
Category 3 Water Damage is the most severe type and poses significant health risks due to the contaminants it contains. This type of water damage, also known as black water, can result from natural disasters like floods, sewage backups, or even Category 2 water that wasn’t efficiently removed and subsequently deteriorated.
Other examples include:
- Sewage
- Contaminated water from sources that enter or affect an indoor environment
- Category 2 water that has not been promptly or adequately removed, leading to reclassification as Category 3
- Toilet backflows originating beyond the toilet trap, regardless of color or visible content
- River or stream water that enters the property
- Rainwater that mixes with sewage
The cleanup process for black water is intricate and requires professional intervention. It involves removing contaminated materials, thoroughly sanitizing affected areas, and repairing any structural damage. Materials that cannot be adequately cleaned are often discarded to prevent health hazards.
“Addressing Category 3 water damage requires immediate attention and expertise. Delaying can lead to further contamination and structural issues,“ says Abraham, Lead Technician at ResQ.
Category 3 water damage requires immediate attention from professionals like ResQ, your Local Water Damage Expert, as it contains harmful bacteria, pathogens, and toxins. Call 877-379-4496, and our experts will arrive within 60 minutes to assess and restore your property effectively and safely.

Category 2 Water Damage: Grey Water
- Sprinkler water for fire protection
- Hydrostatic pressure seepage
- Sump pump collapses
- Toilet bowl overflow with urine (no feces)
- Washing machine discharge
- Dishwasher discharge
- Condensate and chilled water

Category 1 Water Damage: Clean Water
- Rainwater
- Melting snow
- Melting ice
- Broken appliance water lines
- Tub overflows
- Sink overflows
- Broken toilet tanks with no contaminants or additives
- Broken toilet bowls with no contaminants or additives

ResQ’s Water Damage Restoration Process
- Emergency Contact – Available 24/7 for immediate assistance.
- Inspection and Damage Assessment – Technicians evaluate the type and extent of water damage.
- Water Removal and Extraction – Utilizing high-powered pumps and vacuums.
- Drying and Dehumidification – Employing specialized equipment to thoroughly dry affected areas.
- Damaged Material Removal – Non-restorable items are removed to expedite the drying process. This includes performing a Pack Out, where our team carefully removes and stores your belongings to prevent further damage and facilitate the drying process. Once the restoration is complete, a Pack In is conducted to return your items to their original places, helping restore normalcy to your home.
- Cleaning and Sanitizing – Cleaning all surfaces and sanitizing where necessary.
- Restoration – Returning your property to pre-damage conditions.