Restoration Procedures for Category 3 Water Losses

WARNING: Handling Category 3 water damage involves significant health risks, including a high chance of injury or severe illness. This type of water damage restoration process can lead to additional health risks, such as exposure to toxic mold and structural instability if not properly managed.

Jon-Don strongly recommends hiring a trained and certified professional, knowledgeable in the industry's standards of care (IICRC S500 and IICRC S520), to undertake all Category 3 water damage restoration work. Professionals should attend an IICRC WRT Class and an IICRC ASD Class to prepare for handling these complex scenarios.

Category 3 water damage refers to water that is grossly contaminated, containing pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. This water might include silt, organic matter, pesticides, heavy metals, and toxic organic substances. Common sources are sewage, toilet backflows, flooding from seawater, rising water from rivers or streams, and wind-driven rain from hurricanes or other severe weather events.

Basic Procedure for Category 3 Water Damage

1. Contract Completion: Before starting, ensure all work contracts are fully authorized.
2. Safety Hazard Identification: Identify potential safety hazards such as electrical wires in standing water or unstable structures.
3. Source Identification and Containment: Find and stop the source of the water. This may necessitate calling in a professional plumber or contractor.
4. Furniture Protection: Block and protect furniture; relocate smaller items from the affected area.
5. Water Extraction: Use a sub-surface extraction tool for carpets and pads, and a squeegee or mop for hard surfaces. Activate dehumidifiers to reach the dew point.
6. Biocide Application: Apply biocides to all affected surfaces to prevent microbial growth.
7. Material Removal and Disposal: Remove and dispose of contaminated carpet, padding, and any porous or semi-porous structural materials.
8. Moisture Inspection: Check all areas potentially impacted by the water, documenting moisture levels.
9. Create a Drying Chamber: Set up a drying chamber to focus only on the wet areas.
10. Air Movers Installation: Position air movers approximately every 10-15 linear feet, ensuring coherent airflow direction.
11. Daily Monitoring: Daily monitor the restoration, maintaining accurate records of all drying data.
12. Disposal and Documentation: Secure documentation and approval before disposing of non-dryable items.
13. Carpet Reinstallation: Reinstall carpet with a new pad post-drying.
14. Structural Material Replacement: Replace all removed structural materials.
15. Final Cleaning: Thoroughly clean all affected areas after drying to ensure the removal of all contaminants.