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THE PROCESS OF REPAIRING A PROPERTY AFTER A FLOOD

The process of repairing a property after a flood

With the UK weather becoming more and more extreme, flooding has become a major problem for many homeowners, and with 59% more rainfall expected by 2050, many more will sadly suffer the trauma and upheaval a property flood can bring.

The process of repairing a property after a flood

With the UK weather becoming more and more extreme, flooding has become a major problem for many homeowners, and with 59% more rainfall expected by 2050, many more will sadly suffer the trauma and upheaval a property flood can bring.

When a property is flooded, it can cause a whole multitude of issues including dry rot, wood warp, damp, mould and in extreme cases even structural damage.

What factors determine the severity of the flood damage?

The two factors that determine the severity of the damage is the water depth and duration of the flood. The deeper the flood, usually the worse the damage, particularly if the depth is more than one metre, as previously installed flood protection products are no longer effective at this level. You can also find that electric and gas supplies are compromised, boilers can be beyond repair and water tanks contaminated.

Likewise, the duration of the flood can make a significant difference to the extent of the damage. Flash flooding can usually be swiftly remedied whereas a flood lasting more than 24 hours can bring a different outcome. Sitting water can harshly undermine the structural components of a property and result in intense repair works being required, bringing increased costs and significant delays to the speed of the repairs.

The process of restoring a flooded property to its former specification

Once the flood water has exited the property, a competent individual must carry-out a detailed health and safety risk assessment on making the building safe, decontaminated and dry. This is essential as failure to identify a potential hazard could put lives in danger.

Once made safe, the property will be stripped of any saturated components that need replacing such as plaster, flooring and other materials. Once all of these elements have been removed, drying will commence in all areas affected as per a drying programme designed by a qualified technician. The length of time it can take to dry a property depends on a number of influences; the type of materials being dried, humidity levels, temperature, ventilation and of course the size of the house.

Once dry, a ‘drying certificate’ will be issued and the process of restoring and repairing the property can begin. The repairs must be appropriate to the extent of damage and the risk of future flooding. A property in a low-risk area, for example, will usually be repaired to the original specification although minor upgrades could be incorporated. A property situated in a high-risk flood area may require more rigorous repairs significantly increasing the building’s resilience and resistance against future flood damage, including treatments such as dry or wet proofing.

Whatever the level of repairs required, the homeowner will be appointed a project manager for the duration of the works, giving a single point of contact and managing the many tradespeople required to put the property back to what it was before.

Property specialists Westone Housing

Here at Westone Housing we are highly experienced in assisting UK property owners with refurbishments and developments following a flood. We can guide you through the process and manage the project on your behalf. If you would like to discuss your requirements with us, call our friendly team on 01733 320500 or visit www.westone.uk.com

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