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Other Useful Tips

Tips to help your insurance claim for flood or storm damage

  • Ask your insurance company how long it will take the loss adjustor to visit?
  • Ask your insurance company if you should clean your property or if they will contract a company to do it for you.
  • Photograph and video record all damage to your property.
  • Write a list of all damage to your property and belongings.
  • Don’t throw any of your damaged belongings away until you are told to do so.
  • Use a permanent ink pen to mark the maximum height of the flood water on all rooms affected by flooding. 
  • Keep notes of all your phone conversations with your insurer.  Note the date of the conversation, the person you spoke with, and what was agreed or discussed.
  • Keep copies all correspondence with your insurer.
  • Renters should also contact their landlord as soon as possible.

 

Tips to help you begin cleaning your house or apartment after a flood

  • Wear protective clothing including rubber soled boots, rubber or leather gloves, long pants and a long sleeved shirt.  Flood water can leave your home covered in sewage, animal waste, and dangerous chemicals.
  • Hose out all dirt and debris.  Start at the highest water mark and work down.
  • Thoroughly wash and disinfect every part of your home and any items that had contact with the flood waters.  Flood water can leave your home contaminated with sewage, animal waste, and dangerous chemicals.
  • All food items should be disposed of, including sealed jars, and bottled goods.
  • To dry your home you can keep doors and windows open.  You can also use fans and heaters, though too much heat can cause timber to crack.
  • For carpet cleaning seek advice from a professional cleaner.  Carpet is difficult to dry and can cause wood decay and mildew.  Removing the carpet can also cause shrinkage.
  • Furniture is best dried out doors.  Direct sunlight however may cause warping or fading.
  • Mattresses damaged by flood water should be discarded (check with your insurance company first).
  • Fridges and freezers should be disinfected and checked by a professional before use. (Check with your insurance company before discarding).
  • Disinfect dishwashers, washing machines and dryers with water that has been declared safe for drinking. Make sure the sewerage and stormwater lines are working before starting a dishwasher or washing machine.
  • Sanitise the washing machine after washing items contaminated by flood water. Pour disinfectant into the empty machine and complete a 15 minute hot water cycle.
  • Flood damaged photos can be washed in cold clean water.  If stuck together gently separate and lie them face up on a towel to dry.
  • Books can be dried by keeping their pages apart.  If books are very damp sprinkle cornflour or talcum powder between the leaves.  This will absorb moisture and can be brushed off when dry. 
  • Ensure your timber and brickwork is thoroughly dry before attempting repairs.  (check with your insurance company first).

 

Tips to help you begin cleaning your yard after a flood

  • Drain and remove all puddles and standing water as soon as possible to prevent mosquitoes breeding.
  • Clear any gutters to ensure water can drain out.
  • Clean and disinfect all outdoor furniture, swings sets, and bbqs.
  • Dispose of paints, oils and chemicals safely and responsibly.
  • Speak with a Council Environmental Health Officer for more advice.

 

References:  Launceston City Council (2011); Flood Education Kit Brisbane City Council (2001); Flood Wise Victorian State Emergency Service

 

Join the conversation

Share your experiences and any tips you think could help others respond to future heatwave, storm or flood events?  Visit our have your say webpage.

 

For more information

For more information or if you require this publication in an alternative format, such as large print, audio, braille, or in a different language, please contact ASSIST on 9209 6777 or email assist@portphillip.vic.gov.au.

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