- All carpets & absorbent flooring such as wood laminate that have been in contact with the flood water should be removed, please keep a sample 200mm x 200mm from each type and room for inspection (including underlay). Wooden backed grip rod should be carefully removed where possible as these can cause injury to pets and children and will absorb contaminants from flood water
- Soft toys, wooden toys, first aid equipment should not be used as these can cause illness or infection to the user due to absorbed contaminants
- Always protect yourself from contaminants by wearing protective gloves and footwear when dealing with affected contents. Always wash your hands before smoking, eating or drinking
- All furniture that could be affected by water (porous, delicate fabrics, etc...) should be lifted above water level if possible to prevent damage
- Do not put water damaged items on top of unaffected items as this can cause cross contamination and possible staining or scratching
- It may be possible for Munters to restore many affected valuable and/or sentimental items (photos, documents, books, jewellery, artwork, etc...) that may appear beyond repair, put these items in an unaffected area for technicians to inspect. Valuable documents for potential restoration may be wrapped in polythene and frozen to halt deterioration
- Be aware that the recent flooding has brought with it some unscrupulous people touting for work, many offering very cheap rates. Speak to your insurer if you have any doubts as to the genuine nature of any contractors. If you are not insured, then be sure to check the credentials of any contractor. Genuine contractors will not expect payment upfront
- Remove food from fridges and freezers that have been affected or have been turned off as these will perish rapidly and will start to smell if left. Make a list of these items to provide to insurers. Leave doors open to reduce odours
- Start an inventory of all damaged or affected items; this will speed up the claim process. Include age & value of items if known. As above, do not assume that items are beyond repair until inspected by a Munters Technician.
- If it is possible to remove standing water (brushing, mopping, etc...) this may reduce damage to flooring and walls. The longer the standing water is left the more damage it causes.
- Turn off fuses to low-level sockets that may be affected by flood waters
- DO NOT PLUG IN OR USE ELECTRICAL ITEMS THAT HAVE BEEN AFFECTED BY WATER UNTIL YOUR MUNTERS TECHNICIAN HAS TESTED THEM FOR SAFETY
- During periods of heavy flooding and therefore large numbers of calls, you may experience delays when attempting to contact our call centre, please remain patient as your call is important to us and we will endeavour to answer and deal with your claim as quickly as possible
- If you believe your property to be uninhabitable then please discuss this with your insurer or claims advisor
- After significant flooding in your property you should prepare yourself for a drying and reinstatement period of up to 6 months dependant on the degree of damage
- Please advise us if you believe your electrical supply has been affected as this may need to be checked for safety prior to drying commencing
- Any non-absorbent items, such as glassware, fully glazed ceramics, stainless steel pots and pans, can be washed in hot soapy water and will not require specialist restoration
We understand the devastation a flood can have. Despite upheaval and stress caused by such an event, through careful planning agreed with your insurer, we will have you back at home in the shortest possible time.