Flash Flooding: Clean Up

Home and business owners in many parts of Dorset face a long clear up operation following Thursday's flash flooding.

The Environment Agency website is full of advice on the next steps - starting with checking to see if it is safe to return to your property

Take care as there may be hidden dangers in the flood water like sharp objects, raised manhole covers and pollution.
Flood water could have caused structural damage to your property.

Flood water can contain sewage, chemicals and animal waste. Always wear:

Environment Agency: Clearing up after a flood

The next step is to ring your buildings and contents insurance company as soon as possible

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 covered by your policy. Ask if they will help pay for repairs that will reduce potential flood damage and therefore reduce costs if it happens again
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 may be able to help you.