These eight steps will guide you through this challenging time, offering essential tips for staying safe and working effectively with your insurance company.
Once the floodwater has receded and it’s safe to return home, you may be faced with a distressing scene. Even a small amount of water can cause serious damage to your property and belongings - some items may need to be replaced entirely.
Always wear gloves when handling anything that has come into contact with floodwater. Floodwater often contains harmful bacteria and germs that can pose health risks.
Get in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible and follow their advice carefully. Take notes during every conversation and keep a record of all emails, letters, and phone calls.
If you don’t have insurance, contact Calderdale Council or Citizens Advice They may be able to help with hardship grants or connect you with charities that offer support.
If you are insured, ask your provider:
A Loss Adjuster will likely be sent to assess the damage. Do not throw away or repair anything until they have seen it and confirmed it’s okay to do so.
Once your insurer has inspected the damage, contact the Council to ask about help with collecting damaged items. Be cautious when leaving items outside to dry - others may mistakenly think they’re being thrown away.
To support your claim:
Do not switch your gas or electricity back on immediately. Have a qualified professional check all systems and appliances before use.
A certified electrician must inspect any electrical equipment that may have been exposed to floodwater. Never touch wet electrical items unless you are certain the power is off.
Floodwater can also affect gas systems. Even if your appliances seem to work, the flue or ventilation may be damaged. Always have gas appliances checked by a Gas Safe (formerly CORGI) registered engineer before using them again.
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Floodwater may be contaminated with sewage, animal waste, and other harmful substances. Avoid contact with any remaining water or items exposed to it unless you are wearing protective clothing and gloves.
Dispose of all contaminated food, including canned goods, that may have come into contact with floodwater.
Be cautious when walking through floodwater. Hidden hazards such as debris, open manholes, or slippery surfaces may be present. Always move slowly and carefully.
Avoid enclosed spaces like garages or cellars that may contain chemical fumes. These areas can be dangerous until properly ventilated and cleaned.
Boil all tap water before use until Yorkshire Water confirms it is safe to drink. This includes spring water used for drinking or food preparation.
If there is a risk of chemical contamination, do not return home without first getting advice from your Local Authority.
Keep young children and pets away from grassed or paved areas affected by flooding until they have been fully cleaned and restored.
Wash your hands, and your children’s hands frequently. Use bottled water or cooled boiled water if your tap water is not safe. Disinfect children’s toys before allowing them to be used again.
If you experience any health issues, especially flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
Flooding can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Take care of your mental health as well as your physical wellbeing. Don’t put pressure on yourself to clean up quickly - set realistic goals and take breaks when needed.
Open windows and doors to ventilate your home, but keep security in mind. Flooding can lead to mould growth, which poses health risks, especially for people with asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems.
Never use petrol or diesel-powered generators, dehumidifiers, or pressure washers indoors without proper ventilation. These machines produce fumes that can be deadly.
Be cautious of traders offering services after a flood. Always ask for a written quote on letter-headed paper that includes a landline number and physical address.
Before agreeing to any work, check that the trader is registered with the government’s buy with confidence scheme.
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