What to do after a flood

The UK Environment Agency says the first thing to do is find out if it is in fact safe to return to your property.
It said there might be hidden dangers in the flood water such as sharp objects, raised manhole covers and pollution, and the flooding could have caused structural damage, making a building unsafe.It is important to ring your buildings and contents insurance company as soon as possible.

Act quickly
People should be prepared for the fact that they might not be able to move back in quickly.

In almost all cases the insurance company will send a loss adjuster to look at your property. They will confirm what repairs and replacements are needed and are covered by your policy.

If you rent your property, contact your landlord and your contents insurance company as soon as possible.

If you do not have insurance, your local council should be able to provide information on hardship grants or charities that might be able to help you.