After the UK and particularly the south east was battered by Christmas Eve storms causing widespread flooding and loss of power for thousands, the Met Office has issued yet another flood and storm alert in preparation of forthcoming gales and stormy conditions. With this in mind we are providing the following flood advice.

These conditions will compound the existing situation for thousands where there is little chance of the water dispersing due to existing high water levels.

Preparation For a Flood

In preparation of any flood risk please be advised of the following:

1. Be prepared to leave your home or business and consider where you can go for safety AND know the route will be passable
2. Know how to turn off your water mains supplies, gas and electricity
3. Organise a kit of essential items such as a spade, broom,, mop and bucket, domestic detergent/disinfectant; Wellington boots or similar and protective clothing, waterproof torch and radio and bottled water for drinking.
4. Pre-arrange where you will go and how to contact friends and family
5. Think about what items you can move to a safer place and what are essential items for you to have now – do not risk your safety to do so
6. Create a list of important numbers and contact details including Floodline 0845 988 11888 or by visiting the Environment Agency website (www.environment-agency.gov.uk) and the Met Office for weather updates (www.metoffice.gov.uk)

Advice during a flood

1. Safety comes first! Ensure you follow any advice or instructions provided by the emergency services – do not leave it too late
2. If an ingress of water is imminent – turn off the gas, electricity and water supplies ONLY if it is safe to do so. DO NOT touch sources of electricity when standing in flood water. Gas and electricity supplies should remain switched off until a qualified professional has checked the system thoroughly. Wiring, appliances and pipe-work should also be inspected for safety
3. Keep listening to local radio for updates or call Floodline on 0845 988 1188
4. Move irreplaceable personal or sentimental items, such as photographs – as well as portable items – to an upper storey or higher location in your property to prevent loss or damage
5. Beware of Sewage – this can represent a real human safety issue.

What to do for insurance

1. Take photo’s of damaged items and list them
2. Do not throw any items away until your insurer tells you to
3. Always arrange emergency repairs, keep receipts and take photo’s where possible along with estimates for permanent repairs
4. If in doubt – ring your insurer or broker first

Flood should be a core part of your insurance policy even for cheap business insurance. External flood is distinguishable from escape of water – if you have a vacant property insurance, you may still have external flood cover. High value buildings insurance will have specialist advisers to assist but always act as if there is no insurance in force to mitigate any losses. Liability insurance for plumbers, heating or gas fitters should be checked before agreeing to authorise work. This is the same for cheap roofers liability or cheap scaffolders liability. Check their wordings also to ensure that you are protected in the event of any negligence caused by your contractor, unless they have been appointed by your insurer.