Tag Archive for: flooding

Flash Flooding After a Heatwave: Why the Risk Can Increase

After weeks of hot, dry weather, heavy rain might seem like just what we need. However, when rain finally comes, the ground might not be prepared.

Prolonged heat can make soil very dry and compacted, and summer thunderstorms can bring a large volume of rain in a short time.

Combining these conditions means water may flow over the surface faster than it can seep into the ground or drain away.

This often results in sudden surface water and flash floods, even in areas that haven’t seen much rain for weeks.

So, why can flash flooding after a heatwave become such a problem, and how can you protect your home or business from it?

Why dry ground can increase the risk of flooding

It might seem contradictory that dry ground could resist rain absorption.

While dry soil typically soaks up water, prolonged hot, dry periods can change that. Heat boosts evaporation and depletes moisture from the ground.

The Met Office has pointed out that sustained warm weather can quickly dry out soils and vegetation, as seen during the UK’s repeated hot spells in 2026.

Extremely dry soil can become hard, compacted, and sometimes water-repellent. When heavy rain suddenly hits such a surface, the soil may struggle to absorb it quickly.

As a result, water flows over the surface. In lawns, fields, or gardens, this often leads to pooling, and over larger areas, water can flow toward roads, drains, low-lying land, and properties.

Why heavy rain after hot weather can be so intense

The ground’s story is just part of the picture. A warmer atmosphere can hold more moisture; for example, the Met Office states that each 1°C rise in temperature allows air to contain about 7% more water.

This increase can lead to heavier rainfall and a higher chance of flash flooding under suitable weather conditions.

Summer thunderstorms are often highly localised, with one town experiencing only a brief shower, while a nearby area faces heavy rain.

Additionally, such rain can occur rapidly, with thunderstorms releasing large amounts of water in a short time rather than spreading steady rainfall throughout the day.

This rapid influx can overwhelm drainage systems.

What is flash flooding?

Flash flooding occurs rapidly after heavy rainfall.

The Met Office defines it as short-term flooding caused by heavy rain, especially when poor drainage prevents water from escaping.

Unlike river floods, there’s often little time to prepare. Roads can flood, drains may overflow, and water can quickly threaten homes and businesses.

Its sudden onset makes flash flooding particularly challenging to manage.

Urban areas can be particularly vulnerable

Consider how much of a town or city’s surfaces cannot absorb water at all.

Roads, pavements, car parks, roofs, and concrete yards all repel water instead of soaking it up.

Rainfall on these surfaces needs to drain away, usually through drains; however, after dry periods, debris like leaves and dust can clog them.

When drains are blocked or overwhelmed by heavy rain, water can pool rapidly. Basements, underground parking, ground-floor properties, and buildings on slopes are especially at risk.

What does this mean for your home?

You don’t need to live near a river to face flood damage.

Surface water can seep in through doors, air bricks, garages, and other low points around your property.

Heavy rain can also reveal issues with your roof, gutters, and drainage systems.

Before a thunderstorm, it’s a good idea to:

  • Check that gutters and downpipes are clear
  • Outside drains are unblocked
  • Valuable items aren’t stored directly on the floor in vulnerable areas
  • Make sure doors, windows, and other potential entry points are in good condition
  • Know how to safely shut off utilities if needed.
  • Keep your insurance and emergency contacts readily accessible.

Spending just a few minutes on these checks could make a big difference if heavy rain strikes.

What about commercial properties?

For businesses, flash flooding can quickly turn into an operational challenge.

Water intrusion into warehouses, offices, shops, healthcare facilities, or industrial sites can damage stock, equipment, electrical systems, and building materials.

Even a small area of flooding may force partial closures. Therefore, facilities managers should include flash flood preparedness in summer emergency plans, especially after prolonged dry spells.

  • Inspect external drainage systems
  • Loading zones, basements, and lower levels.
  • Anticipate where surface water might flow during heavy rain
  • Additionally, review the storage locations of valuable equipment, records, and stock
  • Most critically, ensure staff know who to contact if water enters the premises

What should you do if flash flooding reaches your property?

Safety is the top priority.

  • Avoid entering floodwaters if there are electrical risks, contamination, or hidden hazards underneath.
  • If it is safe, take photographs of the damage and contact your insurer promptly.
  • Arrange for a professional assessment of water damage quickly.

After the visible water has been removed, moisture can still remain beneath flooring, behind walls, and within other building materials.

Ignoring this moisture can cause additional damage and promote mould growth.

The weather can change quickly

A common mistake during a heatwave is assuming flooding isn’t a concern.

While hot, dry conditions can lead to thunderstorms, this isn’t always certain.

When heavy rain hits after a dry spell, the risk of surface water flooding rises because the dry ground, hard surfaces, and overwhelmed drains can’t absorb the water quickly.

The Met Office has warned that heavy rain on very dry ground can cause sudden flash floods, as the water can’t soak in fast enough.

After a heatwave, monitor the forecast carefully. If thunderstorms or heavy rain are forecasted, use the warning to prepare appropriately.

How ServiceMaster Restore can help after flash flooding

When floodwater damages a property, removing standing water is just the first step.

ServiceMaster Restore offers expert flood and water damage restoration for homes and businesses throughout the UK.

Our teams evaluate the damage, detect moisture that may have penetrated beneath floors or into walls, and implement the necessary drying techniques.

Specialised drying and moisture monitoring are especially crucial after flash flooding, as surfaces like floors or walls might seem dry while moisture remains trapped inside.

Addressing this promptly helps prevent secondary damage, mould growth, and reduces the materials that need replacement. For commercial sites, minimising downtime is critical.

We contain affected zones and support the restoration so parts of the building can resume operation safely. We also collaborate with insurers, brokers, and loss adjusters when needed, documenting damage and managing the restoration from initial response to recovery.

If your home or business has experienced flash flooding or water damage, contact ServiceMaster Restore at 0800 021 3970 or find your nearest branch to learn how we can help.

Can You Stay in Your Home After a Flood?

When floodwater finally begins to recede, most people’s first thought is simple. Can we stay here?

It’s understandable. You seek stability and want to protect what remains. You might not have anywhere else to go on short notice. However, whether you can stay in your home after a flood depends on several factors, some of which are not immediately obvious.

Safety must take precedence. This guide will answer the question, “Can you stay in your home after a flood?”

1. Electrical Safety Comes First

Water and electricity do not mix. Even after floodwaters recede, moisture can stay inside sockets, wires, and appliances.

  • Do not switch the power back on yourself.
  • Do not plug in appliances that have been exposed to water.

A qualified electrician should inspect the system before you restore power. Until that occurs, the property may not be safe to occupy.

2. Structural Damage Is Not Always Visible

Floodwater damages materials. Plasterboard quickly absorbs water. Timber swells. Flooring lifts. In some cases, floors and stairs may feel solid but have reduced strength.

Look for:

  • Sagging ceilings
  • Cracked walls
  • Warped flooring
  • Doors that no longer close properly

If you observe structural changes, consult a professional before making a decision to remain.

3. Contamination and Hygiene Risks

Floodwater is seldom clean. It frequently contains sewage, chemicals, and debris from external sources.

Dry-looking surfaces can still harbour bacteria. Soft furnishings, carpets, and mattresses absorb contaminated water and may pose health risks.

If the flood involved external water or sewage, professional cleaning and disinfection is highly advised before anyone continues living in the property.

4. Damp and Mould Risk

Mould can start developing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage. Even if the house feels dry on the surface, moisture might still be trapped in walls and floors.

If you stay in the property without proper drying:

  • Damp spreads
  • Mould develops
  • Air quality declines

This poses health risks, especially for children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.

5. Heating and Ventilation Challenges

In colder months, drying a flooded property becomes more challenging. Heating alone does not eliminate deep moisture and can even increase condensation in some areas.

Professional drying equipment removes hidden moisture and decreases the risk of secondary damage.

So, Can You Stay in Your Home After a Flood?

You may be able to remain in part of your home if:

  • Electricity has been declared safe.
  • There is no structural instability.
  • Contaminated materials have been removed.
  • Proper drying is in progress.
  • Air quality is safe.

However, if damage is extensive, involves sewage contamination, or impacts essential services, temporary accommodation may be the safer choice.

Your insurer can advise on cover for alternative accommodation if needed.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

The longer water remains in your property, the more damage it causes. Secondary problems like mould, corrosion, and material deterioration raise repair costs and lengthen recovery time.

Professional assessment offers clarity. It informs you whether the property is safe to occupy and what steps need to be taken next.

Getting the Right Support

Flooding can be very stressful. Uncertainty about safety, costs, and recovery time increases the worry. Clear guidance helps you make well-informed decisions. Read our step-by-step guide for documenting property damage to support your insurance claims.

ServiceMaster Restore offers residential flood damage restoration across the UK. Our teams evaluate safety, perform controlled drying, and oversee cleaning and restoration to help you return home as quickly and safely as possible.

If your property has been affected by flooding, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help.

What to Do During and After a Flood in Your Home

Have you had a flood in your home? The key is safety first. Cleaning and restoration come later.

Flooding can be frightening. It often occurs suddenly, with little warning, transforming everyday spaces into dangerous areas. Whether the water arises from heavy rain, a burst pipe, or rising groundwater, understanding how to respond during and after a flood is essential for protecting yourself, your family, and your home.

What to Do During a Flood

If flooding occurs while you are at home, take careful action and avoid unnecessary risks.

Put your safety first

If water levels rise quickly, leave the property if advised to do so. Avoid walking through floodwater. It can hide sharp objects, open drains, or electrical hazards.

Turn off utilities if it is safe

If you can reach them safely, turn off electricity, gas, and water at the mains. Do not touch switches or appliances if water is present.

Move valuables to higher ground

If time allows, move important items upstairs or onto raised surfaces. Focus on essentials like documents, medication, and electronics.

Avoid driving through floodwater

Even shallow water can stall a car or sweep it away. Stay put unless authorities advise otherwise.

What to Do Immediately After a Flood

Once the water recedes, the risk is not over; many hazards still remain.

Do not rush back in

Only re-enter your home when it is declared safe. Floodwater can weaken floors and walls.

Ventilate the property carefully

Open windows and doors briefly to let in fresh air, but avoid leaving them open for long periods in cold weather. Sudden temperature changes increase condensation.

Document the damage

Take photos and videos of all affected areas before moving or cleaning anything. This helps with insurance claims later.

Do not switch electrics back on

Have a qualified electrician check systems before restoring power.

Know your insurance policy

Make sure you know what your insurance policy covers. Always contact your insurance company first before contacting us, then prompt them on the phone that you’d like to use ServiceMaster Restore.

How to Reduce Further Damage

Taking quick action is crucial to prevent the spread of flood damage.

Remove standing water quickly

The longer water sits, the more damage it causes. Floors, plaster, and insulation absorb moisture fast.

Do not attempt deep cleaning too soon

Scrubbing before proper drying can push moisture deeper into materials, encouraging mould growth.

Dispose of contaminated items safely

Floodwater often contains sewage and bacteria. Soft furnishings, carpets, and mattresses may need professional assessment before reuse.

Why Professional Drying Matters

Flood damage is often not just visible on the surface. Water can move under floors, behind walls, and into insulation. During winter, drying takes longer, and moisture remains trapped.

Without adequate drying, mould can develop within days, posing health risks and increasing repair costs.

Professional restoration teams use specialised equipment to detect hidden moisture, control drying, and prevent secondary damage.

Getting Help After a Flood

Flooding impacts more than just your home; it disrupts routines, causes stress, and creates uncertainty. Acting quickly can help restore normalcy sooner.

ServiceMaster Restore offers flood damage restoration services for homes across the UK. Our teams evaluate the damage, perform controlled drying, and guide you through the recovery process step by step.

If your home has been affected by flooding, call 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help today.

Signs of water damage

If you are looking to buy or rent a property, it’s wise to watch for signs of water damage. Signing a contract is straightforward, but exiting it can be difficult if you discover water damage after you’ve signed.

Here are some signs of water damage to watch out for.

Outside of the property

  • Look around the exterior window and door frames; is there any separation? A separation often indicates the potential for leaks or moisture entering the property.
  • Check for missing or cracked roof tiles. This can show if water might enter through the roof.
  • Ensure guttering is intact so that water can flow away from the property freely.

Inside the property 

  • Look for water rings on the ceiling or walls, as these indicate leaks from pipework.
  • Check for any signs of a leak; even small watermarks tell a story.
  • Look for soft or sagging areas in the flooring, especially near water appliances like sinks, baths, dishwashers, and washing machines. While this might simply be faulty appliances, it’s worth investigating.
  • Inspect for cracked and warped flooring, which can reveal previous water damage that caused further problems.
  • Notice any recent repairs to ceilings, walls, and floors, as this may indicate past water damage has been repaired.
  • Remember to check the loft, basement, and garage—all can provide important clues about water damage.

Need professional water damage restoration?

If you are unfortunate enough to be faced with a property with water damage, we can help!

Visit our water damage page, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business or contact us on 0845 762 6828

How to Prepare Your Commercial Property for a Flood

From damaged stock to operational downtime, the impact of a flood can be costly and long-lasting. Whether your premises are located on a high street, in a business park, or in a rural area, it’s essential to prepare in advance. Here’s how to prepare your commercial property for a flood.

1. Check if You’re at Risk

Check if your area is at risk of flooding using the government’s flood risk checker. Sign up for free flood alerts via the gov.uk to receive early warnings through text, phone, or email.

2. Carry Out a Flood Assessment

A flood risk assessment helps you understand how water may enter your premises and which areas or equipment are most vulnerable. Use this information to plan protective measures and prioritise critical systems.

3. Safeguard Key Equipment and Stock

Where possible:

  • Keep important stock, documents, or servers elevated above ground level.
  • During high-risk periods, move portable items to higher shelves or upper floors.
  • Ensure that computers and sensitive equipment are kept off the floor and backed up regularly.
  • Install waterproof storage to protect essential records.

4. Create a Flood Response Plan

Make sure your staff know what to do in the event of a flood. Your plan should include:

  • Roles and responsibilities for key staff
  • A list of emergency contacts
  • Instructions for shutting down power safely
  • How to secure stock or equipment quickly
  • Clear evacuation routes and access to emergency kits

Conduct regular training sessions or practice drills, especially if your business operates in a high-risk environment.

5. Install Physical Protections

Invest in flood defence products where possible:

  • Flood boards or barriers for doors and windows
  • Airbrick covers
  • Non-return valves on drainage and pipes
  • Sealant for walls and floor gaps

6. Check Insurance Cover

Ensure your policy includes cover for flood damage, business interruption, and contents. Keep copies of your policy, photos of equipment, and asset records in a safe and accessible location.

Need flood recovery support?

We’re ready 24/7 to help businesses across the UK recover quickly and safely.

Contact us today at 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to learn how we can assist you.

How To Prepare Your Home for a Flood

Flooding is an increasing risk throughout the UK. Homes are becoming more vulnerable to surface water during heavy rainfall and rising river levels, especially in the autumn and winter months. If you reside in or near a flood-prone area, it is essential to prepare. Here are the steps on how to prepare your home for a flood.

1. Check if You’re at Risk

Check if your area is at risk of flooding using the government’s flood risk checker. Sign up for free flood alerts via the gov.uk to receive early warnings through text, phone, or email.

2. Make a Flood Plan

Create a simple plan covering:

  • Choose a safe place to go if you need to leave your home
  • Keep a list of emergency contacts somewhere easy to find
  • Know where your important documents and valuables are stored
  • Talk through what to do with children, pets, or anyone who may need extra help

Ensure that every member of the household is aware of the plan.

3. Move Valuables and Essentials

When a flood is likely:

  • Move furniture and valuable items to an upper level or elevate them off the ground.
  • Keep passports, insurance documents, and cash in waterproof containers to ensure they stay safe and dry.
  • Disconnect electronics and move them to higher ground.

4. Protect Entry Points

Invest in flood defence products where possible:

  • Flood boards or barriers for doors and windows
  • Airbrick covers
  • Non-return valves on drainage and pipes
  • Sealant for walls and floor gaps

While these measures won’t make your home floodproof, they can provide valuable time and help reduce damage.

5. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Keep a waterproof bag stocked with:

  • Torch and batteries
  • First aid kit and medicines
  • Bottled water and long-life snacks
  • Warm clothes and blankets
  • Power bank or mobile charger

6. Turn Off Utilities if Needed

If water is entering your home, it is crucial to act quickly and safely. First, turn off the gas supply, electricity, and water at the main valves.

Ensure you do this only if it is safe to do so and you can access these controls without putting yourself at risk. This action will help prevent further damage and reduce the risk of electrical hazards.

If possible, move to higher ground and call for assistance if needed. If it is safe to do so, turn off the water at the mains.

Need help recovering from flood damage?

We’re ready 24/7 to help homes across the UK recover quickly and safely.

Contact us today at 0800 021 3970, or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to learn how we can assist you.

How to add value for policyholders at no extra cost

How ServiceMaster Restore can support you and your policyholders when you need it most.

When your policyholders face a disaster, one of their biggest concerns is cost. As a broker, this is a concern you share. You’ll also want to minimise the cost of restoration work, no matter how complex.

Extra disaster restoration costs often arise from delays or third-party contractors. That’s why, at ServiceMaster Restore, we’ve reduced the costs of restoration work through approved networks to save you and your policyholders time and money.

Let’s see how.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

In disaster restoration, time is money, so saving time means saving costs. Your policyholders want to know that they can return to their property as soon as possible.

ServiceMaster Restore Plus is a hassle-free addition to your existing coverage. It caters to the diverse needs across sectors to ensure guaranteed same-day callouts, exceptional service, and cheaper claims costs.

How?

Restore Plus is our network of restoration specialists. Being part of it means that with one phone call through our 24/7 Priority Line, you can arrange for someone to be on-site the same day. With Restore Plus, lengthy and costly claims processes are a thing of the past. As soon as disaster strikes, we’ve got you and your policyholders covered.

ServiceMaster Restore Connect

ServiceMaster Restore Connect is our official supplier network, joining you, your policyholders and us with the nation’s most reputable trade experts and contractors.

Through this network, we offer a complete end-to-end solution for restoration work. Whether for a commercial or domestic property, ServiceMaster Restore Connect is a seamless integration of our services that brings together local experts in various trades. So, no matter where you are in the country, you can trust we’ll have an expert at the door the same day.

When your policyholders contact ServiceMaster Restore UK, they’re not only benefiting from 65+ years of experience delivering premium disaster restoration services, but also from approved suppliers that allow us to support on…

  • Drainage Solutions
  • Building Repairs
  • Electrical and Lighting
  • Floor covering, Boarding & Scaffolding
  • Furniture and Upholstery Repairs
  • Plumbing, Water & Heating
  • Refurbishment and Reinstatement work (painting and decorating)
  • Roofing
  • Landscaping
  • Waste Management
  • Pest Control

And we’re not done. As the portfolio of approved suppliers grows, we can support our customers in more ways, ensuring all policyholders get the right help when they need it most.

Choosing ServiceMaster Restore means choosing an end-to-end solution that can mitigate damage, report and complete all restoration works. So, you can spend more time with your policyholders, knowing each client is being looked after, as Restore Plus also means they use our services risk-free. When making a claim, we work within their excess and report before an insurer has even attended the property.

Combined, ServiceMaster Restore and Connect ensure our local experts can be on hand fast to deliver professional solutions. All while making you the hero, by providing great value at a speed that saves time and money.

See the value of a comprehensive restoration service

Join the supply chain for premium end-to-end claims management and disaster restoration solutions from an industry-leading brand with over 65 years of providing evolving and expert services across the UK.

Sign up for ServiceMaster Restore Connect and ServiceMaster Restore Plus and get connected to more local opportunities and be the hero your policyholders need. It’s easy and (not to mention) free!

Or, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.

Expanding the Fleet in Swansea

A new vehicle hits the road in Swansea.

The owner of ServiceMaster Restore Swansea has expanded his fleet with the addition of a brand-new ServiceMaster Restore pickup truck.

This addition to his existing fleet of branded vehicles will allow Jamie to better serve a broad range of clients in residential and commercial properties across the area needing expert disaster restoration services.

Disaster Restoration from ServiceMaster Restore

Fire and Smoke Damage

Our expert fire and smoke damage restoration services help you return to your home or business as quickly as possible.

All our technicians are fully trained in fire mitigation, restoration and corrosion control, giving you the reassurance and results you need in a difficult situation.

Furthermore, acidic residue may continue to cause damage, even after the fire has been put out.

Even a small fire can cause dangerous smoke damage and create soot that needs expert removal to be dealt with.

Our professionals can evaluate what damaged items are salvageable and act quickly to save them.

Flood and Water Damage Restoration

All of our technicians are fully equipped to carry out professional extraction and drying processes to protect your assets and restore your property as close as possible to its prior condition.

Our top-notch equipment is also non-invasive and can be run quietly, so you don’t lose sleep while your home dries.

Leak Detection

We also carry out sophisticated leak detection services to identify water damage before it happens and stop it in its tracks, sparing you the cost and stress of dealing with damage from water in your property.

Our top-of-the-range and non-invasive equipment uses infrared cameras, acoustic sensors and moisture metres to identify a leak and check for moisture to mitigate potential damage and give you peace of mind.

Graffiti and Vandalism Restoration

Graffiti and vandalism can have a huge impact on your corporate image.

First impressions count, and an unsightly building could lead to a loss of business, a reduction in staff morale and a negative public perception

Our specialist products can remove unwanted graffiti from walls to signage, with a rapid response and effective restoration to get your property back to normal in no time.

Trauma Restoration

Whether you need to clean up blood, bodily fluids, drug paraphernalia and other biohazards, we’re here to help.

Once at a scene, we’ll evaluate the extent of the damage and when authority is given, we will immediately begin trauma scene cleanup and restoration procedures.

We sanitise, clean, and deodorise all affected areas for infectious pathogens including HIV, Hepatitis A, B and C and Tuberculosis.

Once the infectious pathogens have been eradicated, we take all steps to return the residence or business to its original state before the incident.

Mould removal and inspection

We’re here to protect you and your property from mould damage by using advanced tools to detect and effectively remove it.

If you have even the smallest suspicion that there may be mould in your property, call the experts and we’ll be here to help put you at ease.

Sanitisation, Deep Cleaning and Disinfection Services

Prevent flu or cold viruses from stopping your commercial property with ServiceMaster Restore’s comprehensive sanitisation, deep cleaning and disinfection services and products.

We carry out room and building contamination, fogging and surface sanitisation services using BDMA-qualified technicians and specialist products that meet the Emerging Pathogen Standard to be effective against many virus strains.

This includes SaniMaster, our effective sanitising and decontamination product widely used within hospitals, food preparation areas and schools to kill 99% of viruses like Cdiff, HIV and enveloped viruses

ServiceMaster Restore Plus

ServiceMaster Restore Plus caters to professionals navigating the intricacies of property claims.

Say goodbye to lengthy claims processes and say hello to being the local hero for your customers through this hassle-free add-on to your existing cover.

Our network of restoration specialists streamlines the claims process, preventing bottlenecks so that we can all be there for the people who need our support, when they need it most, with a guaranteed same-day callout for any disaster restoration work.

This offering also ensures cost efficiency through a tangible decrease in claims costs due to our proactive approach to damage mitigation.

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

Whatever damages your residential or commercial property is facing, ServiceMaster Restore is here to help.

If you’re in Swansea and the surrounding areas, keep your eyes out for Jamie’s new truck or give him a call when you need him on 01792 439940.

Or, nationwide, we’ll be there on 0800 021 3970  in an emergency or find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business today for support with a range of premium disaster restoration services from your local heroes.

How to deal with rainwater flooding

How to prevent and repair rainwater flooding damage to your property.  

In your home or your business, flooding is a most unwelcome event.

Here’s how you can help protect your home and prevent flooding damage and what to do should the worst happen.

How to prevent rainwater flooding

  • Clear drains and gutters to avoid overflow
  • Keep windows closed (where possible)
  • Apply sandbags if you are near banks
  • Waterproofing

How to restore rainwater flooding

After experiencing water damage from flooding, you will be left cleaning up a watery mess.

Whether ripping up carpet or tiles or replacing furnishings, there’s a lot of work ahead to get your home back in order.

Follow these eight water damage restoration tips for cleaning up after water damage.

  1. Prepare for water damage insurance claims

Thankfully, many insurance policies cover unexpected water damage.

Contact your insurance company immediately and take the proper steps to prepare for your claim.

It is important to note water damage to your home is generally covered by a standard homeowner’s insurance policy.

If the damage is considered sudden internal water damage, your policy should protect you.

However, it usually does not cover damage done by lack of maintenance or neglect, nor damage resulting from a flood.

To prepare for your insurance claim, take the following steps:

  • Take photos of the water damage to keep track of household items and home conditions.
  • Keep damaged materials for proof of loss.
  • Be present if an adjuster needs to visit your home.
  • The adjuster will assess the damage to the house, providing you with a proof of loss statement to sign.
  • Additional damages can be added when identified.

  1. Disconnect the power and gas before entering the premises

Before any clean-up, you must shut down the electrical supply and the gas.

Turning off power leading into the affected area, particularly if water rises above electrical outlets, will help reduce the risk of electrical shock. Equally, turning off the gas will prevent harmful fumes from building up and seeping into your home.

  1. Remove important household items

Remove electronics, furniture, and any other valuable items immediately. The quicker you can get items out of the water, the better chance of saving them.

If you don’t have a lot of standing water around the house, you can also try pulling up your carpets and under-padding or even some sticky back tiles to see what you can salvage.

  1. Remove excess water

Removing excess water is the most challenging part of flood recovery.

If it is necessary to turn off the power, take the manual approach.

Gather buckets, towels, and mops to eliminate as much water as possible. This can be physically taxing, so take breaks when necessary.

If you can supply power or a backup generator for your commercial premises, you can hook up an automatic pump or a wet vac to remove the water. Either way, remove the excess water at the earliest possible time.

  1. Dry out the affected area

When excess water has been removed, move on to the drying stage urgently.

Use fans, dehumidifiers, and any open windows to improve air circulation and help dry out the damaged area and then continue to circulate dry air.

  1. Clean and disinfect the damaged area

After the damaged area has had time to dry, use a good disinfectant to remove any bacteria that might have come up through sewers, plumbing, or outside, depending on your water source.

Various affordable and accessible cleaning solutions can help clean the area, including bleach, ammonia, sodium tetraborate decahydrate, vinegar, and bicarbonate of soda.

  1. Take steps to stop mould growth

Once the damaged area has been dried and cleaned, it is time to take preventative steps to stop mould from seriously growing. Apply a mould control spray over the affected area according to the directions on the bottle.

Once the spray dries overnight, it will destroy any mould spores.

  1. Dispose of damaged items in a responsible way

To properly deal with water damage, you must stop the water from entering the premises and drying up as much as possible. Contact your insurance agent and prevent mould from growing. Remove and discard damaged items in the most responsible way that you can.

Need some help with flood restoration?

These are just the basics of flooding restoration. There is much more involved than extracting water from your property.

Stagnant water can prove deadly if ingested following ineffective cleaning and sanitisation following rainwater flooding. As well as extraction, our teams at ServiceMaster Restore will dry, clean and decontaminate your property to ensure no rainwater remains.

We can be on hand within 4 hours for a flooding emergency to help clear water from your property, followed by removal and decontamination from rainwater flooding.

To prevent lasting damage to your property or health, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to repair any rainwater flooding damage today or call 0845 762 6828 in an emergency.

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Case study: Flood Drying in Devon

How our experts dealt with flooding in a bungalow due to a burst pipe. 

When it comes to flooded properties, we often assume the cause is sudden and heavy rainfall. However, a common cause of flooding is a burst pipe or leak. Leaked water can cause extensive property damage and requires expert and prompt remedial care.

ServiceMaster’s technicians are trained to deal with flood water and have specialist water-drying equipment. This recent case study from ServiceMaster Restore Devon provides insight into our process and the benefits of using our services to deal with the aftermath of a leak or flood.

What was the problem?

We attended a semi-detached bungalow that suffered a water escape during the night due to a burst pipe. Our client was unaware of the situation until she woke to find water had saturated the floors (concrete with laminate wood-effect flooring) in several rooms—the bedroom, conservatory, and kitchen.

Solution

Our step-by-step process to remediate the damage was as follows:

  • We drilled small holes in the floors to access the concrete below with our moisture probes. This investigation confirmed water moisture equivalent (WME) readings of 100% (saturated).
  • We removed the laminate floor to expose the sub-concrete floor below.
  • After carefully removing the furniture to a safe space, we installed a tented drying system in each room to only localise the drying to the floor, as other areas were unaffected.
  • We used a combination of refrigerant dehumidifiers to reduce humidity in the room and desiccant dehumidifiers to blow warm, dry air into the polythene tents. Using both types of humidifiers together creates a very dry atmosphere, accelerating moisture evaporation in a targeted way.
  • We installed humidity sleeves into the concrete and completed weekly visits to check the equipment, take moisture readings, and monitor the overall drying progress.
  • At our weekly visits, we adjusted the tenting to ensure the drying system continued to operate at optimum levels.flood-drying-devon

Outcome

Our swift intervention prevented further damage to the property and ensured our client could reinstate her home in the least amount of time possible. It took approximately six weeks to dry the floors completely.

Upon completion, we issued a certificate of dryness and a final report with all the key information for the homeowner’s records.

Need us?

For swift restoration following a flood or water leak, contact the ServiceMaster Restore Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk

For residential or commercial carpet, rug, upholstery or hard floor cleaning, visit our ServiceMaster Clean website.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Restore business to see how we can help you today.