"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



A flood is horrible to go through and even worse to mop up after.
Definitely lift all the carpets because they'll be holding bacteria that was
washed in by the water and are now a health hazard, hence the foul smell as
the first warning of this. Also check that the floor shows no signs of
heave (rising) or subsidence (dropping), then give the whole thing time to
dry out before putting anything back.

Water damage can take weeks to show itself, so get ready for a wait before
making everything good again. This might be a chance for you and your
insurer to do something to prevent any reoccurrence.