The top 5 things to do if your property has flooded

Quick answer

Flooding is one of the most distressing events a homeowner or business can experience. In the UK, flooding affects thousands of properties every year, causing devastating flood damage and disruption. According to the Environment Agency, over 5 million properties in England alone are at risk of flooding. With climate change leading to more extreme weather events, the risk is only increasing.

When faced with a flood, panic can set in, leading to rushed decisions that might cause further harm. Knowing what to do in the critical moments after a flood can help protect your property, speed up recovery, and most importantly, keep you safe. Here are the top five things you should do if your property has been affected by flooding.

1. Ensure Safety First

Before anything else, prioritise the safety of yourself and anyone else in the property. Floodwaters can be dangerous, bringing health hazards and hidden risks. Follow these essential safety steps:

• Avoid floodwater where possible – It may be contaminated with sewage, chemicals, or hidden debris.
• Turn off gas, electricity, and water – If it is safe to do so, switch off your utilities to prevent electrical hazards or gas leaks.
• Wear protective gear – If you need to enter the property, wear waterproof boots, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself from contaminants.
• Check structural damage – If the flood has been severe, there could be structural damage that makes the building unsafe. If in doubt, seek professional advice before entering.

If water levels are still rising, evacuate immediately and call emergency services if necessary.

2. Assess the Damage and Document Everything

Once it is safe to do so, assess the extent of the damage to your property. This will be essential for insurance claims and professional clean-up efforts.

• Take detailed photos and videos – Capture images of the flood damage in every room, including furniture, walls, floors, and any personal belongings.
• Make a list of damaged items – This will help with insurance claims and loss assessments.
• Check for structural issues – Look for cracks, warping, or weakened foundations that might require specialist attention.

By documenting everything thoroughly, you’ll make the insurance claims process smoother and faster.

3. Contact Your Insurance Provider

Many UK homeowners and businesses have flood insurance as part of their home or commercial property policies. Acting quickly can help you get the support you need sooner.

• Call your insurer as soon as possible – Most providers have a 24-hour claims helpline. They will guide you on the next steps and may send an assessor to inspect the damage.
• Don’t start major clean-up before contacting them – Your insurer may require an inspection before repairs begin.
• Ask about emergency accommodation – If your home is uninhabitable, your insurance may cover temporary housing costs.

Keep all receipts for emergency expenses, as these may be reimbursed by your insurer.

4. Start the Drying and Cleaning Process

Time is critical when dealing with flood damage, as standing water can lead to mould growth and further structural deterioration. The faster you act, the better your chances of salvaging your property.

• Determine the type of floodwater – The type of water will determine how you handle clean-up:
  • White water – Clean water from burst pipes or taps. It is safe to handle but still needs to be removed quickly.
  • Grey water – Wastewater from appliances, showers, or sinks. It may contain bacteria and should be handled with caution.
  • Black water – The most dangerous type, containing raw sewage and hazardous contaminants. Avoid contact and seek professional help.
• Pump out standing water – If water levels are high, a professional flood damage company can use industrial pumps to remove it safely.
• Ventilate the property – Open windows and doors (if safe to do so) to speed up drying.
• Use dehumidifiers and fans – These will help reduce moisture and prevent mould.
• Dispose of contaminated items – Anything that has come into contact with sewage or black water should be disposed of safely.

Professional flood damage restoration services in the UK can help with drying, sanitising, and repairing affected areas efficiently.

5. Prevent Future Flood Damage

Once the immediate crisis has been handled, it’s time to think about long-term flood prevention. With flooding becoming more common in the UK, taking preventive measures can save you from future heartache.

• Install flood defences – Consider flood barriers, air brick covers, and non-return valves on drains.
• Raise electrical sockets and appliances – If you live in a flood-prone area, raising sockets and keeping important electrical items on higher ground can reduce damage.
• Improve drainage – Ensure your gutters and drains are clear to reduce surface water build-up.
• Check your insurance policy – Make sure you have adequate flood coverage and understand what is included.
• Sign up for flood alerts – The Environment Agency and Met Office provide flood warnings to help you prepare in advance.

There are also government grants available for flood resilience measures in certain areas. If your property is at high risk, check whether you qualify for funding to install flood prevention systems.

In summary

Recovering from a flood can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps quickly can make all the difference. Ensuring safety, documenting damage, contacting your insurer, drying out your property, and investing in flood defences will help you get back on track faster.

If you need expert help, professional flood restoration services are available 24/7 to assist with cleanup, drying, and repairs. By acting swiftly and decisively, you can protect your home, your health, and your future from the devastating effects of flooding.

Floods can be catastrophic, but preparation and fast action are key to reducing damage and recovering efficiently. Don’t wait until disaster strikes, take proactive steps to safeguard your property against future flooding events. By staying informed and prepared, you can lessen the impact of flooding and ensure a quicker return to normality.