Flash flooding and heavy storms could pose a considerable threat to your home. Flood damage can quickly become catastrophic, so if you’re unfortunate enough to fall victim to it then it’s important to know what steps to take.
While the storm is occurring
What should your thought process be?
The first step is to naturally make sure all people and pets are as safe as possible. If you notice flooding, turn off the electricity and water supply to your home as soon as possible. If it’s obvious the flooding is only getting worse, gather your family and pets, and get out.
When the storm has passed
After you have weathered the storm, what should you do?
Survey the damage
The first step, if it is safe to do so, is to check your home to establish the depth of the water damage. Take a powerful waterproof torch with you and remember to wear waders and thick gloves, where possible, as a precaution – even clean-looking water could be contaminated by either sewage or chemicals.
Flood damage can be pervasive throughout your home, so even if it appears that only the ground floor is flooded, check upstairs too. Turn off your utilities if you didn’t get a chance before evacuating – if you’re not confident, contact your utility company for help.
Take photographs
You need to document as much of your home as possible as it stands, so take photos of everything. You’re looking for signs of structural damage, cracks, holes, and warping of the foundations to ensure the home is structurally stable. When you’re satisfied it is, begin assessing the damage to your belongings. Again, take photos of everything exactly as you find it. You can never take too many photos- they may become invaluable for assessing your insurance claim later down the line, so document every step of your walk-through.
The clean-up
Mould can begin setting in very quickly, so open all doors and windows as soon as possible and remove soaked items – photograph everything before you throw it away. Notify local utility companies if you’re the only house affected, and your landlord if you rent your property. If doors, windows, or the roof have been damaged, use boards and tarp to secure the property as you may be liable for any further damage resulting from it being unsecured.
Contact Aspray
If you are unfortunate enough to experience flooding in your home, Aspray could help you gain a fair settlement from your insurer and, using vetted contractors, reinstate your property to its pre-loss condition as swiftly as possible. Aspray could even help with the clean-up process, drying out and securing of your property so be sure to keep our number handy during times of flood warnings.
Simply contact 0800 077 6705 to speak with a member of the claims team. Lines are open 24 hours, 365 days a year.