One of the most distressing events is a flood where possessions may have been lost and damage to the home means residents face an extended spell in temporary accommodation while the property is dried out and repaired.
Those who have insurance will get assistance from their insurance company.
Advice on cleaning-up, repairs, insurance and where to get help can be found on the links below.
You can also find information on how to prepare for flooding.
Useful links
- GOV.UK: What to do after a flood
- Flooding and health– how to clean up your home safely
- Food safety advice
- Advice from the National Flood Forum
- British Damage Management Association – understanding basic flood recovery procedures.
Insurance and repairs
If you have home insurance, which is recommended, then contact your insurer as soon as possible.
If you are not insured or choose to handle the repairs yourself make sure you use only reputable tradesmen as after a major incident where properties have been damaged there are always rogue tradesmen willing to try and cash in on other people’s misery. You may wish to consider checking with the Buy With Confidence Scheme.
The scheme provides consumers with a list of local businesses that have given their commitment to trading fairly. Every business listed has undergone a series of detailed checks before being approved as a member of the scheme.
More information about the insurance process is available from the Association of British Insurers.
More services to help you after a flood
- Devon district councils – search local council websites for additional advice and information on flooding and other emergencies.
- Devon Highways – road maintenance, traffic management and parking, streetlights and signs, and public rights of way. Tel 0845 155 1004.
- Devon and Cornwall Police – non-emergencies tel 101.
- Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue – 24-hour fire safety advice and free home fire safety checks. Tel 01392 872 200.
- Environment Agency
- UK Health Security Agency
- Western Power (Electricity) – call 0800 365 900
- South West Water – customer services and emergency helpline tel 0844 346 2020
- Gas – if you smell gas call the National Grid UK Gas Emergency helpline on 0800 111 999. There are a number of gas suppliers in Devon. You will need to contact your own supplier for general enquiries. Check bills for contact details.
- Citizens Advice Bureau – call 03454 04 05 06 for advice or visit your local Citizens Advice Bureau