Water Category Identifier (IICRC S500)
Identify the official IICRC S500 water category (1, 2, or 3) for your water damage source. The category determines required cleanup protocols, equipment, and disposal procedures.
What is the source of the water?
Select the closest match. The IICRC S500 standard defines water categories by contamination level at the source.
Educational tool only. Information provided is general and based on industry standards (IICRC S500/S520, Health Canada mould guidance, IBC industry data). For your specific situation, consult a licensed Canadian professional. Results are not personalized advice.
About the IICRC Water Categories
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) maintains the S500 Standard for Professional Water Damage Restoration. The standard defines three water categories based on contamination level at the source — not the type of building material affected.
Categories matter because they determine required PPE, antimicrobial treatment, demolition scope, and disposal procedures. Category 3 (black water) work, for example, requires hazmat-level protocols that Category 1 (clean water) does not.
Important time element: Per IICRC S500, water category degrades over time. Category 1 water becomes Category 2 within 24-48 hours of contact with porous building materials. Category 2 becomes Category 3 within 48-72 hours under typical conditions. Speed of response directly affects which category applies — and therefore the cost and complexity of remediation.