Flood Cleanup Guide

Cleaning Up After a Flood

Health and Safety

• Wear protective equipment: Rubber boots, gloves, face mask, eye protection
• Assume all floodwater is contaminated with sewage and chemicals
• Ventilate your property before spending extended time inside
• Do not turn on electricity until an electrician has checked the installation
• Photograph all damage before cleaning for insurance purposes

Step-by-Step Cleanup

• Pump out standing water (hire a pump or ask your insurer)
• Remove damaged items: Carpets, underlay, plasterboard below the flood line
• Hose down hard surfaces with clean water
• Disinfect: Use a bleach solution on hard surfaces
• Dry out thoroughly: Open windows, use dehumidifiers and fans
• Check for structural damage: Look for cracks, bulging walls, damaged foundations

Drying Out

A typical flood-damaged house takes 6-12 months to dry out properly. Rushing redecoration before drying is complete will trap moisture and cause damp and mould.

• Professional drying services can speed the process
• Industrial dehumidifiers are much faster than domestic ones
• Keep heating on low (15-20C) with windows open
• Monitor moisture levels with a damp meter

What to Keep and What to Discard

• Discard: Carpets, soft furnishings, mattresses, chipboard furniture, standard plasterboard
• Keep and clean: Solid wood furniture, metal items, ceramic tiles, stone surfaces
• Professional cleaning: Curtains, clothes, leather goods