What qualifies as water damage?

What qualifies as water damage refers to any destructive intrusion of water into structure or belongings that causes harm, and for insurance purposes it has specific definitions that affect coverage. Generally, water damage qualifies as sudden and accidental discharge of water from plumbing, such as burst pipe, broken water heater, overflowing washing machine or bathtub, leaking appliance supply line, or roof leak after storm that allows rain inside. It also includes water from firefighting efforts, ice dam leakage, and accidental sprinkler discharge. For homeowners insurance, qualifying water damage is typically sudden and accidental, not gradual, so slow leak over months that causes rot does not qualify, nor does flood from outside rising water, which requires separate flood insurance, nor does sewer backup unless you have endorsement. Water damage categories include Category 1 clean water from supply line, Category 2 gray water from appliance with contaminants, and Category 3 black water from sewage or flood with harmful bacteria. Signs that qualify include wet drywall, warped floors, stained ceilings, mold growth within 24 to 48 hours, and musty odor. To qualify for restoration and insurance claim, damage must be documented, source stopped, and professional drying started quickly to prevent secondary damage like mold.