What to do in the event of a flood
Following on from our UK Flood update to assist you and your customers we have some useful advice that you may want to pass on to them.
What to do when a flood actually happens
- Listen out for warnings on the radio and TV
- Alert your neighbours, particularly the elderly
- Move pets, vehicles, valuables and items of sentimental value to safety
- Seal any delicate items in water-proof plastic bags and move them upstairs if possible
- Put sandbags or flood boards in place. Plug sinks/baths/toilet bowls and weigh down your plugs with a sandbag or other heavy object. Disconnect washing machines and dishwashers to prevent back-flow and plug any connected pipes e.g. with cloths or towels
- Be ready to turn off gas and electricity (get help if needed). Unplug all electrical items and move them upstairs, together with easily-moved furniture, if possible
- Co-operate with emergency services and local authorities - they have emergency planning in place for floods so be prepared to be evacuated to an emergency shelter
- Fill a vacuum flask with a hot drink and keep other items to hand such as a torch, warm clothing, a battery-operated radio (tune to the local station for updates) and a mobile phone (if you have one)
- Keep your insurance documentation to hand for useful helpline numbers
Clearing up after a flood
- Phone the Norwich Union claims line phone numbers for advice from a claims adviser
- Lift any flood-damaged carpets to allow the floor to dry, but don't throw them out
- Remove excess water from photos and paperwork and leave them to dry naturally
- If heating is available, use a low heat to gently dry things out - using a high heat can cause further damage
- Safety first - take care not to use electrical sources of heat near floodwater and wear protective clothing
- If you are drying out your home using the central heating system only, make sure the rooms are well ventilated. Make sure your valuables and home contents are secure
- If a dehumidifier is suggested, make sure doors and windows are closed
- Be patient - taking time to dry out your home properly could save time when it comes to redecorating
- Once the floodwater has gone, take the advice of your claims adviser before you start redecorating as the brickwork needs to dry out for some months
- Don't throw anything away - your claims adviser will need to assess damage to your belongings for valuation purposes and to see if it is possible to repair them
- Discuss flood-resistant repairs with the person handling your claim e.g. replacing carpets or wooden floors with tiled floors. More information on flood-resistant repairs is available from the Environment Agency, CIRIA and the Department for Communities and Local Government websites
