Dealing with a flood in your property is stressful and costly, but there is guidance on what steps you should take to get back to normal as soon as you can.
Immediate aftermath
The Association of British Insurers advises that you should first consider your own safety. Then contact your insurer who will begin the process of assessing the damage and getting the property back into a fit state.
You should turn the electricity off if you are able to. If the flood is severe and you’ve had to leave your property, the emergency services will let you know when it is safe to return. There may need to be a safety inspection first.
Clearing up
Before starting any repairs, you should contact professionals for advice. Check with your insurance company to see if they need to appoint them. As flood water can contain sewage and chemicals, you should wear rubber gloves, a mask and sturdy footwear if you are cleaning and always thoroughly wash your hands if they come into contact with the water.
Preventing flooding
To reduce the risk of further flooding, you may want to install drain lining. This can prevent leaks, cracks and the deterioration of old pipes so that there is less chance of water infiltrating the surrounding ground. If you are looking for drain lining Gloucester, there are many providers such as https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/sewer-repairs-drain-lining-concrete-cutting/drain-repairs/gloucester/ who will be able to offer advice.
Get support
Check the GOV.UK website for information on Flood Support Officers. Your local council may be able to offer financial aid to help pay for flood recovery. You may also want to consider emotional support – take a look at the UK Health Security Agency’s guide on mental wellbeing after experiencing a flood.