Category 3 Water Cleanup in Des Moines, IA
Category 3 water is the industry term for grossly contaminated water — the same category as sewage and black water, requiring the same protective response.
Part of Des Moines Water Damage — 24/7 restoration dispatch for the Greater Des Moines metro.
Category 3 water cleanup addresses grossly contaminated water — the restoration industry's classification covering sewage, flooding, and water that has sat long enough to grow bacteria. This requires protective equipment, full sanitizing, and disposal of contaminated porous materials. We respond across the Greater Des Moines metro, 24/7.
What Falls Under Category 3
Signs you need this
- ✓Sewage backups and toilet overflows
- ✓Flooding from outside the home (rivers, streets, storm surge)
- ✓Category 1 or 2 water left standing more than 72 hours
- ✓Water contaminated by chemicals or other hazardous substances
- ✓Any water with an unclear or unconfirmed contamination source
Why it happens
Water damage restoration classifies water into three categories based on contamination level. Category 3 — the most hazardous — includes sewage, outdoor floodwater, and any water that has been standing long enough for bacteria to grow, regardless of its original source.
How Category 3 Cleanup Works
Classify the water
We confirm the contamination level before determining the cleanup approach.
Protective extraction
Category 3 water is extracted using appropriate protective equipment and containment.
Sanitize thoroughly
All contacted surfaces are sanitized to address the contamination.
Dispose of affected materials
Porous materials that can’t be safely disinfected are removed and disposed of.
Dealing With Contaminated Water?
Category 3 water needs proper protective handling. Call 24/7 across the metro.
Serving the Greater Des Moines Metro
Our dispatch network reaches the whole metro — Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, and the surrounding suburbs.
Other Ways We Can Help
Category 3 Water Questions, Answered
How do you know if my water damage is Category 3?
Does Category 3 always mean sewage?
Is Category 3 cleanup more expensive than a regular leak?
Get Category 3 Water Handled Safely
24/7 dispatch across the metro. Call immediately.
Proudly serving the Greater Des Moines metro as Des Moines Water Damage — see our full service area.