Flood recovery - Oxfordshire Flood Toolkit

When the floodwater has gone and it’s safe to return home, you may be faced with a difficult sight. Even a small amount of water can have a devastating impact with damage to your property and belongings, some of which may have to be replaced.

The eight steps below will help you during this time and will give you advice on dealing with your insurance company and keeping safe. Try ticking off each step to reveal the next one.

Tick off the eight steps to get on your way to recovery…

Step 1

Contact your insurers as soon as possible and follow their advice. Don’t throw away damaged goods until your insurer has said it’s ok to do so. When you do wait for an organised collection. It’s also a good idea to take photographs of the damage.

Step 2

Avoid contact with any remaining floodwater or items that have been exposed unless wearing protective clothing and gloves. Be sure to dispose of any contaminated foods (including tinned) that may have been in contact with floodwater.

Step 3

Check the safety of electricity and gas appliances before use. A qualified electrician needs to check any electrical equipment that may have come into contact with floodwater. Visit Trust Mark to find trustworthy and qualified traders.

Step 4

Boil all tap water until your water company tells you it’s safe to use and drink. Be sure to wash your own and your children’s hands often with bottled or cooled boiled water if your water supply is not safe.

Step 5

Wash down all hard surfaces with hot soapy water. Use a domestic disinfectant to wash over all hard surfaces after cleaning. Clothing, bedding and other soft/fabric articles (such as children’s toys) should be laundered at the highest temperature as indicated on the manufacturer’s instructions. If this is less than 82°C, the articles may still contain bacteria.

Step 6

Go to your doctors if any health issues appear, especially flu-like symptoms. Visit the Public Health England website for more details on the health risks of flood water.

Step 7

Ventilate your property but keep security in mind. Less damp means less damage.

Step 8

Rogue traders often promote their services after flood events. Make sure to get a written quote on letter-headed paper with a landline number and address before entering into any agreement. Check they are registered with the Government Buy With Confidence scheme.