After a Flood

Long term recovery

How to clean up your property safely after a flood

When cleaning up, remember that flood water often contains harmful substances such as sewage and other contaminants. It can also contain debris that may cause injury. Take care and wear appropriate protective clothing.

If you use heaters or dehumidifiers to dry out your business, make sure there’s good ventilation. Never use petrol or diesel-powered generators indoors – their exhaust gases are potentially lethal.

If you have any questions about recovering from a flood, such as disposing of used sandbags or damaged furniture, contact your local authority. They should help with collecting large flood-damaged items. They’ll tell you where to put them and when they may be collected.

Flood Guidance also provides advice on cleaning up after a flood.
Public Health England has produced a guide on cleaning up your property safely after a flood.

The main steps

Recording evidence of the flood damage

Removing any remaining flood water

Sanitising and drying out the building

Repairing the property

Replacing damaged items

Repair to your property

Take advice from specialists or landlord before starting repairs to your business. Most of the repair work after flooding will need to be undertaken by professionals appointed by your insurers.

Think about how you can make your property more resilient to flooding during the repair process. This is something that you can discuss with your insurers, as there may be opportunities to factor in resistant and resilient features.

There may be funding available to help you install PFR and increase your flood resilience.

Flood Water in a Town

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