Once the flooding has receded the process of recovery starts. Often, this can be more disruptive than the flood itself, as recovery from flooding can take several months if not longer. Do not expect things to return to normal in the immediate future. Restoring and repairing buildings after a flood is often a long and specialist business. Unfortunately in past floods, there have been cases of unscrupulous workmen who have taken advantage of distressed homeowners to convince them into signing up for non-existent or sub-standard repairs. The restoration of homes and possessions after flooding requires specialist knowledge and skills, and is not a quick process, and should be undertaken by professionally qualified tradesmen. Your insurance company will be able to offer advice on who to employ on making repairs to your home.
The initial aftermath of a flood is often lengthened by the large number of demands placed on loss adjusters, insurance companies and contractors. Do be prepared for delays and disruption for some time – this includes the possibility of living in temporary accommodation (perhaps a caravan) for several months.
As soon as you can, get in touch with your insurers and seek their advice.
If you are not insured for flooding, do not be taken in by unscrupulous tradesmen. They prey on your desire to move back into your home as soon as possible and it is easy to agree to a seemingly cheap and immediate solution. Using inexperienced or unprofessional contractors could result in further damage requiring a more expensive remedy. Be sure to check on any contractor’s experience and reputation.
If items of particular personal or sentimental value have been damaged do not assume that they cannot be restored – in many cases they can by specialist restorers.
If at all possible DO NOT walk in flood waters, as drain covers may have been lifted, along other debris that you cannot see.
Flood waters will almost certainly be contaminated with raw sewage. If you are forced to walk in flood waters, cover open wounds, and make sure that you thoroughly wash afterwards.