Flood Damage Restoration

Of all the possible disasters that can damage a home, floods are the least predictable in terms of the damage that they may cause. Some homeowners are able to salvage their homes even if they have to dispose of some furniture, appliances, and items such as carpeting and curtains. Other homeowners find themselves faced with tens and even hundreds of thousands of pounds in repairs. Even then, the mould may still develop behind walls and in other places where water damage cannot easily be seen.

 

Have you been displaced from your home due to flood damage?  Is your home now structurally compromised, overtaken by mould, or otherwise unsafe to occupy?  If so, it is important that you understand your rights and options as the owner of a flood-damaged home.

Will my insurance cover my home if it becomes flooded?

Most buildings insurance policies cover flood damage up to the rebuild value of your home. This can include structural damage

You can also cover your belongings because most contents insurance companies will protect your possessions against flood damage.

That means if your home is destroyed by water damage and flood damage you may be able to claim on your home insurance policy to pay for the necessary repairs and replace your personal possessions.

What can I claim for flood damage?

Your home insurance may cover the costs of:

• Repairing your property
• Drying out your home
• Removing any debris brought into your home by flood water
• Alternative accommodation if your home is uninhabitable
• Replacing or fixing your belongings, including furniture

Why is contamination such a risk with flood water?

Flood water generally contains mud, bacteria, sewage, and chemical toxins. This is because flood water often causes the disruption of water purification sewage systems, as well as the overflow of toxic waste sites and chemical spillage.

Although the water that is absorbed by porous materials may dry out, the contaminants left behind will continue to pose serious health threats. That’s why it is a good idea to dispose of porous materials such as carpeting, rugs, mattresses, upholstered furniture, and vinyl flooring, especially if they have been underwater for more than 24 hours. Salvageable items and fixtures, such as those made of glass, porcelain, plastic, and concrete damaged by water, should be cleaned, disinfected, and dried as quickly as possible by a professional restoration company.

How will a flood affect my electrical appliances and systems?

First and most importantly, do not enter your home if the ground is still wet unless you are certain that the power has been turned off at the mains. The power provided to your home should not be turned on, even after the flood water has subsided, have a qualified professional to inspect your home and declare that it is safe to do so.

Flooding not only causes water damage but also increases the risk of fire through:

• Improper generator use or maintenanceLeaking above-ground gas lines, containers, and tanks attempt to use electrical appliances that have been exposed to water electrically charged waterImproper use of alternative heating devices, or use of such devices near combustible materials

Should I have my home tested for mould?

Once you home has dried out we strongly advise having your home tested for mould which can appear in the future and create more issues later down the line. If you have suffered flooding in the past and have not had a mould check carried out you can contact us, we will send a qualified professional to inspect your home.

Is your home at risk from flooding?

If you are unsure whether your home is at risk from flooding you can check by using a flood risk map.

Different government agencies are responsible for issuing flood maps depending on where you live, check this flood risk map of England and Wales to see if you are located in one of the risk areas.

Frequently Asked Flood Damage Questions