Indoor-source water damage
Examples include a burst pipe, appliance leak, failed water heater or overflowing fixture. The source, amount and contamination level determine the appropriate cleanup steps.
Outdoor flooding
Water entering from outside after heavy rain, surface accumulation or waterways can carry soil and contaminants and may require additional precautions.
Why the distinction matters
Cleanup methods can differ, and insurance policies may treat different causes of water intrusion differently. For coverage questions, rely on your policy documents and insurer rather than assuming every water event is handled the same way.