Advice centre

What to do after a flood or leak

Water damage spreads quickly. Acting fast limits the damage and protects your insurance claim.

Checklist

The first steps after water damage

Whether the water came from a river, heavy rain or a burst pipe, the first priority is safety. Floodwater can be contaminated, and water and electricity are a dangerous mix.

Then concentrate on stopping further damage and recording what's happened. Proper drying matters as much as the repairs themselves.

Standing water across the floor of an empty room
  1. Stay safeAvoid floodwater, which can be contaminated. Only turn off the electricity at the mains if it's safe to do so.
  2. Stop the water if you canFor a burst pipe or leak, turn off the water at the stopcock.
  3. Tell your insurerReport the damage promptly and note your claim reference.
  4. Record the damagePhotograph and video every affected room, and note how high the water reached.
  5. Keep damaged itemsDon't throw anything away until your insurer has seen it or agreed.
  6. Don't start repairs too soonGet emergency drying and urgent works agreed first, and keep every receipt.
  7. Get your own representationA loss assessor makes sure your property is properly dried and your claim covers all the damage.
Avoid these

Common mistakes after a flood or leak

Avoid these and you'll protect both your property and your claim.

Flood damage claims Escape of water claims

  • Repairing before the building is dryRepairs should wait until moisture readings confirm the property is dry, or damp and mould can follow.
  • Cleaning up before photographingRecord the damage first. Photos and videos are some of your best evidence.
  • Claiming under the wrong sectionFlood from outside and escape of water from inside are treated differently by most policies.
  • Not keeping receiptsEmergency costs such as pumps, dehumidifiers and temporary repairs can usually be claimed.
  • Not checking alternative accommodation coverIf your home can't be lived in, your policy may pay for somewhere to stay.
Keep reading

More from our advice centre

All guides
What to do after a fireA step-by-step checklist for the first hours and days after a fire, and the mistakes to avoid. Underinsurance explainedHow being underinsured can reduce your settlement, and how to check your cover. Questions your loss adjuster may askWhat a loss adjuster will ask you, why they ask it and how to answer.

Need help with your claim?

Speak to an experienced loss assessor for free, no-obligation advice. No win, no fee.

Start your claim Call 0161 904 7800
Lines open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.