Protect your business from flooding
What to do after a flood
Your first priority must be safety. Do not re-enter your premises until you are sure that they are safe. Even if a building looks safe, it may have suffered structural damage and could collapse. You could also risk a fatal electrical shock if the mains electricity has not been disconnected.
Bear in mind that flood water may contain sewage, chemicals and waste matter. You should protect yourself and others assisting in the clean up by wearing gloves and other suitable protective clothing to prevent possible infection from foul water. If you are using a pump to remove excess water you should also place the generator outside the building to avoid the health risks associated with the build up of carbon monoxide fumes.
Once it is safe to re-enter, start salvaging goods and repairing damage. You may find it quicker and safer to replace damaged items rather than trying to repair them. You may need to take expert advice on the best way to repair damage to the building.
Check with your insurance company first before you throw anything away or start any repair work. They can often recommend suitable tradesmen to help you, and may be willing to make an interim payment to help you get your business going again as quickly as possible. Local councils usually provide skips and extra rubbish collections for items that your insurance company has agreed you can throw away.
You will need to start trading again as soon as possible. A good flood plan should include a list of people you need to contact, such as suppliers. You may be able to operate from temporary premises while repairs are carried out.
Post-flood action advice on the Environment Agency website - Opens in a new window.
You should also consider how to make your premises more flood resistant and resilient to future floods. Read guidance on ways to reduce flood damage to your premises on the Environment Agency website - Opens in a new window.
Subjects covered in this guide
- Assess the risks of flooding
- Draw up a flood plan
- Insure your business against flooding
- Reduce potential flood damage
- Train employees to deal with flooding
- What to do after a flood
