What is Category 3 water in restoration?
Category 3 water is grossly contaminated water containing pathogenic, toxigenic, or other harmful agents. Examples include sewage backup, rising floodwater, and any Category 1 or 2 water that has been untreated for more than 48 hours. Per IICRC S500 §10.5.3.
Category: Water Damage
Reviewed: 2026-04-19
Source: IICRC S500 §10.5.3
RP
Ryan PennyIICRC WRT/ASD/AMRT/FSRT/OCT · MI Builder License #2101187907 · Family-owned restoration in West Michigan since 1981.
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