Our pictures below show mould growing across the floor area in the lounge. In the kitchen area standing water can still be seen on the floor. The second photo shows more mould growth on the ceiling (possibly the early stages of dry rot) along with black spot mould formations.

What should I do if my property is subjected to flooding?

The best plan of attack if your property has been subjected to flooding is call in the professionals at an early stage.  A reputable company experienced with flood damaged properties, such as Timberwise, would be able to diagnose the best way to ensure the property is dried out fully to avoid future problems.

There are various ways to dry a flooded property – these include:

Speed drying: This uses heaters and hot air to force the moisture out.

Dehumidification: Desiccant and heat exchange types are commonly used by flood drying companies.  Desiccant dehumidifiers operate by absorbing moisture from the air. Heat exchange dehumidifiers work by drawing air over a cold surface were water is condensed out of the atmosphere. These dehumidifiers are most effective where the air is warm and relative humidity can be held at a high level. Timberwise can also provide smaller dehumidifiers for home usage should you need one,

Fresh air:  When conditions are right large volumes of relatively dry warm air over a damp surface will be enough to achieve very effective drying. Sometimes at certain times of the year the best way to achieve drying is to open all the doors and windows and simply let the air blow through the property!

If you have a property that has been subjected to flooding give Timberwise a call to see if we can help you. Call 0800 288 8660 or complete our on-line survey request form.

• The ABI estimated that storm and flood damage claims following the 2000 floods amounted to between £700m and £750m.
• There are currently more than two million homes within a flood risk area, and an additional two million homes are within 100 metres of a flood risk area. An estimate 250,000 new homes have planning approval within flood plain areas.
• The Environment Agency predicted that there is likely to be a 10-fold increase in the risk of flooding over the next century, and The Foresight Report confirmed that is one of the likely costs of global warming if it continues.

For further information on flooding visit the Environment Agency website.

According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), there are currently more than 400,000 properties in and at high risk and in need of flood alleviation or protection, and over 2.2 million properties at risk. In addition the Foresight Report, published by the government in April 2004, warns of significant increases in flooding in the future.