Flooding is headline news at the moment, and has been for a distressing length of time. The effects are devastating to both property and lives. That’s why we’re offering you this guide on the steps to flood recovery. We hope you won’t need it, but if you live in a flood risk area like south or west London, it pays to think ahead and be prepared for the worst case scenario of heavy flooding.
Step 1: Make sure all the occupants of your home are well cared for
With all the worry and stress about damage to your property, it’s easy to forget the most important things of all: your wellbeing and that of your loved ones. Make sure you’re all as warm, well fed and rested as possible, because this will help give you strength to deal with your situation and make rational decisions. Make time to take stock of what’s going on and don’t rush into decisions too quickly. Flooding is traumatic, so it may help to talk about your feelings and to ensure that children understand the situation and are reassured. Contact your insurance agent to see if you have immediate cover for alternative accommodation.
Step 2: Check that the property is safe before you re-enter
First and foremost, your property must be safe before you re-enter it. Check for any signs of structural damage, and only enter carefully once you are satisfied it is safe enough. Turn the gas and electricity off, and keep them off until those services have been inspected by a professional. Similarly, do not drink the water until the authorities verify that the supply is uncontaminated. Then and only then, enter your home and rescue the most valuable items which can be salvaged. Take photos of the floodwater and the damage it has caused, and then if possible remove wet items for drying, to prevent mould from forming.
Step 3: Contact your insurance agent
If you haven’t done so already, this is the right time to contact your insurance agent. Make a list of all the damaged and lost items, their purchase date and value. Photograph any items that you need to dispose of before the agent has viewed the property. If you are cleaning the area yourself wear gloves and boots to disinfect the flood scene. Wet items should be thoroughly disinfected because mud silt and other contaminants in floodwater pose a risk to your health. Let these objects dry out and monitor them carefully for fungal growth and odours.
Step 4: Call London Damp Company
Although we haven’t quite been in business since Noah’s flood, we have decades of experience in flood recovery in London. Not only can we help you bounce back after the trauma of flooding, we can help you make sure your home withstands future flood events. Or better still, why not flood-proof your property before the worst case scenario becomes a reality? Call 0207 127 6886 for free specialist advice.
