Coping after a flood
Advice on how to cope after a flood
Repairing buildings
Many people are shocked to discover how long it takes for their property to recover from flooding. This is because buildings must be thoroughly dried out before repairs can be started (to avoid the risk of problems with damp or mould growth) and the whole process typically takes months, rather than weeks.
Repairing Lives After
Flooding can affect health and wellbeing, and dealing with it can be physically and emotionally stressful. Children and older adults are especially at risk, but strong feelings like grief or anger are common for everyone afterwards. These are normal responses, and talking about fears and worries with others can really help.
Flood Recovery Support
To help deal with these problems, contact your local flood recovery centre as soon as possible if one is set up in your area. They may also be able to advise on practical issues such as clean-up and insurance claims. Other sources of support include your GP, voluntary organisations, faith-based groups or counselling services.
Why Seeking
Help Matters
Trying to “soldier on” without support can lead to serious and long-term issues, including depression, anxiety and substance misuse. These effects can build over time and make recovery more difficult and impact everyday life. Seeking
help early is very important
for your wellbeing
and recovery.
Insurance claims
For homeowners who are insured against flood damage, the insurer will typically
provide (or pay for) the cost of alternative accommodation while the property is undergoing repair. Contents policies will usually cover the drying, cleaning, repair/restoration or replacement of damaged possessions, but bear in mind
there may be some variation between companies and policy types
For Tenants
For tenants, building insurance is usually the landlord’s responsibility, so contact your landlord as soon as possible. If you have contents insurance, contact
your insurer too.
Photographs,
Take photographs and make notes, and take great care when moving around your home after the water has drained away, as floors and structures may still be unsafe.
If you don’t have insurance
The costs of repairing your home and replacing your possessions will be your responsibility – but there may still be help available from voluntary organisations and the like.
More on recovering after a flood (whether insured or not) can be found here: