Doncaster Metropolitan Borough Council

General Information

• When floodwater recedes, it may leave a muddy deposit. As well as the distress of clearing up there may be structural damage to your property.
  
• Remember that while sandbags help to keep water out, they will also keep it in as the water goes down.
  
• Always wear rubber gloves to clean surfaces or move objects that have been in contact with the floodwater - the water will have been contaminated with sewage and other pollution.
  
• The Yellow Pages lists details of qualified assistance such as plumbers and electricians as well as suppliers of cleaning materials and equipment. This can be found under "flood damage".
  
• It may be necessary to contact utility suppliers to reconnect supplies.
  
• Don't use electrical circuits or equipment exposed to flood water until checked by a qualified electrician.
  
• Don’t dispose of damaged goods until your insurers have had a chance to inspect them.
  
• While in the property floorboards, walls, etc will continue to dry out. Any loose material and dust resulting from this should be vacuumed up on a regular basis.
  
• Very young children should avoid playing directly on timber floorboards or any damaged tiled floors if possible – be aware of the risk of injury from sharp edges on tiles or raised nails in the floorboards until these have been repaired.
  
• Help for vulnerable and elderly people returning to their houses is available.
  
• Contact your doctor if you become ill after accidentally swallowing mud or contaminated water and tell your doctor your house was flooded.

Insurance

• Contact your insurance company immediately if your home has flooded as the majority of household policies provide insurance cover for flooding.
  
• If you are a tenant and have taken out contents insurance, household contents, fixtures and fittings should be covered. It is normally the responsibility of your landlord to provide building insurance, however you are advised to check your policy.
  
• If you are uninsured you will most likely be responsible for covering all costs of flood damage. Remember to keep records of damage (photos etc).