Answer 6 quick questions and get your water category, mold risk, urgency level and insurance guide in about one minute. No name, phone or email needed.
Quick answer: The checker uses the source of the water, how much there is, and how long it has been wet to show your IICRC water category, your mold risk, how urgent it is, and whether insurance usually covers that cause.
| Category | Common sources | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Category 1: Clean water | Burst supply pipe, water heater, broken water line | Lowest risk. Fast drying can save many materials. |
| Category 2: Gray water | Washer, dishwasher, sump pump overflow, toilet overflow without waste | Has germs. Avoid skin contact. Carpet pad is usually removed. |
| Category 3: Black water | Sewage backup, floor drain backup, outside flood water | Unsafe. Needs protective gear, removal of soaked materials and disinfection. |
Quick answer: The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to help prevent mold. The longer water sits, the higher the risk.
| Cause | Usual coverage |
|---|---|
| Burst pipe, water heater, appliance leak | Often covered when sudden and accidental |
| Sewer, drain or sump pump backup | Usually needs a water backup endorsement |
| Outside flood water or runoff | Usually needs flood insurance, such as FEMA NFIP |
| Slow or long term leak | Often excluded as wear and tear |
Every policy is different. This is a general guide only. Call your insurance company to confirm your coverage.
Stay safe and keep away from water near outlets or the electrical panel. Then stop the water at the main shut off valve, take photos, and call a water damage company.
It depends on the source. Clean water from a supply pipe or water heater is Category 1. Water from a washer, dishwasher or sump pump is Category 2. Sewage and outside flood water are Category 3. Clean water can turn into Category 2 or 3 if it sits too long.
The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to help prevent mold growth. After that, mold can start growing in drywall, carpet pad and wood.
Sudden and accidental damage, like a burst pipe, is often covered. Sewer and sump pump backups usually need a water backup endorsement. Flooding from outside usually needs flood insurance. Slow leaks are often excluded. Always check your own policy.
Small spills of clean water can be dried with towels, fans and a dehumidifier. Soaked carpet, wet walls, sewage, or water that has been sitting for a day or more should be handled by a professional, because hidden moisture leads to mold.
Yes. The checker is free, takes about one minute, and does not ask for your name, phone number or email.
Every minute counts when water is spreading. Call now and speak to a real Littleton technician 24/7.
(720) 664 0553Send us your water damage details and our Littleton team will get back to you quickly with a no obligation estimate.
Request an Estimate