Discoloration or staining on walls, ceilings, or floors
*Warping or buckling of wooden materials
*Musty or moldy odors
*Increased humidity levels
*Electrical problems
Category 1 (Clean Water): Caused by leaks from appliances, broken pipes, or overflows
*Category 2 (Gray Water): Contaminated with biological materials, such as sewage or dishwasher discharge
*Category 3 (Black Water): Severely contaminated with bacteria and viruses, such as toilet backups or floodwaters
Category 1 damage can be repaired relatively easily
*Category 2 and 3 damage may require extensive remediation
Recent damage is more likely to cause future problems
*Older damage may have already been addressed
Obtain a detailed report on the water damage and any repairs performed
*Consider hiring a professional to inspect the property
Check if the homeowner's insurance covers water damage
*Determine the deductible and potential out-of-pocket expenses
Ultimately, the decision is personal and depends on your comfort level with the situation
*Consider your tolerance for potential risks and the costs associated with water damage repair