"David" wrote in message
...
We've just suffered some flood damage - flash flooding following heavy
rain
on Friday morning. Water rose over our door level and came into the
ground
floor, wetting some carpets. The water receded within half and hour and
we
mopped up as best we could, but we did not take up the carpets (they are
fitted) although we dried them using a professional vacuum similar to the
carpet shampoo types, so they were touch-dry on the surface.

The floor is solid, probably concrete over stone, in a 200 year old stone
cottage (not a listed building). There has never been a damp course and
we
have never suffered from damp.

The plaster walls (emulsioned) are now visibly damp up to 12" from the
floor (the water never rose above the carpet pile). I am expecting the
insurers to visit on Monday; should I argue that the plaster needs to be
replaced? If so, on what basis or precedent?

As for the carpets, there is now a horrible smell starting and I am trying
to let the air in as best as I can. I am also using our steam cleaner in
the hope of killing or slowing the growth of any fungus or mould. I'd be
glad of any advice.

I am fully insured all-risks (including flood) and new-for-old. Can
anyone
give me any tips as to how to handle this? Many thanks.

David



I've been flooded several times; you have my deepest sympathy.

I agree with everything Big Wallop says and would like to add:

Open your door and windows as much as possible, without plenty of
ventilation blowers and heaters only move the water round the house.

You don't mention skirting boards but most houses have them. If, as you say,
the plaster is wet then the unpainted back of the skirting will be wet which
will mke it bend and crack. The nails will rust, swell and discolour the
paint. This may take months to reveal the full extent of the problem. I took
the advice to have the walls replastered up to waist height and fitted new
skirting boards. Itook the oportunity to fit lots of new electric sockets.

Where did the water come from? Was it run off from nearby fields or roads,
did a ditch or stream overflow or, worst of all, an overflowing sewer?

What has your local authority said and done about the problem? Tell them
what you want done; keep pushing them. When I asked my local councillor
about my flooding problem he said he could do nothing and suggested writing
to the local newspaper. He was also Chairman of the District Council so
probably knew what he was talking about. A television camera quickly
persuades a local authority of the wisdom of your argument. Make notes of
what the council's officers tell you and make it clear that you are doing
so, ask them their names.

Ask your neighbours whether it has happened before.

Don't be tempted/persuaded to settle too quickly with your insurance
company.