Why Flood Waters are Category 3

3/17/2021 (Permalink)

Flooding homes and businesses are all-to-common in areas that are close to rivers, lakes, or streams.  Many times in the summer tropical storm systems can dump many inches of water which can cause flooding. There is also the reality of huge snow storms in the northeast like the nor’easter we recently had in February of 2021 here in Northeast Pennsylvania. The melting snow can cause water levels to rise. There are also the rare occurrences when ice can cause a dam or blockage in a local river or stream system.

It is important to understand that no matter what the cause of outside water seeping into your home or business, the water should be treated with extreme caution. Many times this water is contaminated and can cause harmful side effects if not dealt with correctly. Any outside water from storms is treated as a Category 3 loss.

Category 3: "Black Water"

This water is grossly unsanitary and could cause severe illness or death if ingested, and any contact should be avoided. Sources for category 3 water could include flooding from rivers or streams, water from beyond the toilet trap, water from the toilet bowl with feces, or standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

SERVPRO of Pike / NE Monroe Counties has you covered no matter how bad the water damage may be. We have the equipment, personnel and experience to get the job done right.

--Michael Smitchel