Water damage is a common and costly problem that can affect homes and businesses alike. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including: * **Plumbing leaks:** This is the most common cause of water damage, and it can occur anywhere in the home or business, from the roof to the basement. * **Broken appliances:** Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters can all leak water if they are not properly maintained or if they malfunction. * **Burst pipes:** This can occur due to freezing temperatures, corrosion, or other factors. * **Flooding:** Flooding can be caused by heavy rains, snowmelt, or dam failures. * **Condensation:** This occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, such as a window or a wall. There are two main types of water damage: * **Clean water damage:** This type of damage is caused by water that is not contaminated with harmful bacteria or chemicals. Examples of clean water damage include leaks from plumbing fixtures or appliances. * **Dirty water damage:** This type of damage is caused by water that has been contaminated with harmful bacteria or chemicals. Examples of dirty water damage include flooding from a sewage backup or a burst pipe in a contaminated water supply. The root cause of water damage is typically a failure in the water system. This can be due to a number of factors, including: * **Lack of maintenance:** Regular maintenance of plumbing fixtures and appliances can help to prevent leaks and other problems. * **Corrosion:** Corrosion can weaken pipes and fittings, making them more likely to burst. * **Freezing temperatures:** Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst. * **Ground movement:** Ground movement can put stress on pipes, causing them to leak or burst. By understanding the causes and types of water damage, and by taking steps to prevent it, you can help to protect your home or business from this costly problem.