Advice for homeowners affected by flooding

If your property has been affected by flooding, assessing damage and making plans for repairs can be a daunting experience.

It is important that you receive the correct professional advice and that only competent, reputable contractors are used.   

• be vigilant when dealing with potential traders and insurance management companies who appear out of the blue
• speak to your insurance company before engaging any companies offering to repair flood damage
• beware of companies offering a ‘quick fix’ solution
• avoid dealing with cold callers
• legitimate insurance companies should be registered with the Financial Conduct Authority and you can ask for proof of this

If your property is insured:

• contact your insurer as soon as possible
• when safe to do so, take pictures of any damage to assist your claim
• consider compiling lists of damaged or lost items, recording the tide mark on walls, creating a diary or log of activity and recording the contact details of everyone you speak to
• keep damaged items and avoid undertaking repair works until you have made contact with your insurance company as you may invalidate your claim.

If your property is uninsured:

• seek several quotes for repair work from reputable businesses and request references where possible to check the quality of work
• ask neighbours or friends for recommendations
• use local businesses where possible
• ensure there is a written agreement about works included in the price of the work
• consider obtaining free pre-shopping advice from the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on freephone 0808 223 1133.

Information and advice:

Useful advice can be found on the GOV.UK website

You can also read more on our Consumer Advice page