5 Steps to Recover from Flood Damage | Expert Surveyor Advice

February 18, 2014 By
RICS Guide to flooding

Flooding can be a devastating experience, leaving property owners overwhelmed and unsure of where to begin. Whether caused by natural disasters, burst pipes, or blocked drains, quick action is essential to minimize damage and protect your home or business. Follow these 5 expert-recommended steps to recover from flood damage effectively.

Step 1: Ensure Safety First

Before entering your property, prioritize safety. Floodwaters can hide hazards such as electrical risks, structural damage, or contamination. Contact professionals if you suspect severe structural issues.

Learn about our Structural Damage Surveys for peace of mind.

Step 2: Document the Damage

Accurate documentation is crucial for insurance claims. Take clear photographs and videos of the affected areas, including damaged walls, floors, furniture, and appliances.

Keep a detailed inventory of damaged items, including receipts if available.

Discover our Insurance Claims Assistance Services to streamline your claims process.

Step 3: Remove Water and Begin Drying

A flooded house.

Removing standing water and drying out the property quickly can prevent further damage and mold growth. Use pumps, wet vacuums, and dehumidifiers to dry the space. Ventilate the area by opening windows and doors if possible.

Be cautious of hidden water in cavities like walls and floors, which may require professional assessment.

Explore our Moisture and Mold Inspection Services for thorough evaluations.

Step 4: Clean and Disinfect

Floodwaters often contain contaminants like sewage or chemicals. Clean all surfaces with disinfectants and discard items that cannot be safely cleaned, such as carpets and mattresses.

Wear protective gloves and masks while cleaning to avoid exposure to harmful substances.

Read our guide on Post-Flood Cleaning and Restoration for expert tips.

Step 5: Assess Repairs and Plan Restoration

After cleaning, assess the extent of repairs needed. Engage a qualified surveyor to evaluate structural integrity, recommend repairs, and provide guidance on restoration.

Use this opportunity to implement flood-resistant measures like raised electrical outlets or waterproof flooring.

Contact us to schedule a Flood Damage Survey and start your restoration process.

Bonus Tips for Preventing Future Flood Damage

Install sump pumps or flood barriers. Maintain gutters and drains to avoid blockages. Consider flood insurance for better financial protection.

Learn more about Flood Protection Strategies.

How RMA Surveyors Can Help

Recovering from flood damage can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At RMA Surveyors, we offer professional flood damage surveys, structural assessments, and insurance claim support to guide you every step of the way.

Call to Action

If you’ve experienced flood damage, contact RMA Surveyors today for expert advice and personalized solutions. Get in touch to protect your property and start your recovery process with confidence.. If you need the assistance of a qualified and experienced Chartered Building Surveyor please call on 01635 579 208 or contact us via our contact page.

Filed Under: Building pathology, building survey, Building Surveying, Construction, Defects, diagnosing damp, Flood, Flood, Flooding, Insurance reinstatement, Landlords, Newbury, Residential, West Berkshire Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Expert Insurance Claims Support for Property Owners

November 15, 2011 By
Cracked wall caused by impact damage. RMA Surveyors often deal with reinstatement of such damage.

At RMA Surveyors, we understand how overwhelming property insurance claims can be. Whether you’re dealing with fire, flood, or storm damage, we are here to guide you through every stage of the process. From initial damage assessments to reinstatement, we ensure that your claim is handled efficiently, and you receive the settlement you deserve.

What We Offer in Insurance Claims Support

We specialize in managing the complexities of insurance claims, helping property owners secure fair settlements and overseeing all necessary repairs. Our team handles everything from evaluating the damage and liaising with insurers to ensuring your property is restored to its original condition.

If you’re unsure about your next steps or need guidance, we’re here to help. Contact us today.

For general advice on insurance claims, visit the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Why Choose Us?

Our expertise lies in making the claims process as smooth and stress-free as possible. With years of experience in property surveying and insurance claims reinstatement, we provide:

  • Accurate assessments of property damage to support your claim.
  • Clear, detailed reports that meet insurer requirements.
  • Expert professional expertise to specify, tender and administrate the building contract.
  • Oversight of repairs to ensure quality and compliance.

Find out more about our insurance reinstatement services.

Common Scenarios We Handle

We’ve successfully helped property owners recover from:

  • Fire Damage: Restoring properties affected by fire and smoke damage.
  • Flood Damage: Addressing water ingress and structural issues caused by flooding.
  • Storm Damage: Repairing roofs, windows, and other external elements damaged by severe weather.
  • Accidental Damage: Managing unexpected repairs caused by incidents such as vehicle collisions with buildings.
  • Criminal Damage: Refurbishments after properties have been abused by criminal enterprises.
  • Impact Damage: Repairs to properties after impact from vehicles.

No matter the scenario, our focus is on ensuring your property is restored quickly and efficiently.

For advice on insurance disputes, visit the Financial Ombudsman Service.

The Benefits of Working with RMA Surveyors

Choosing RMA Surveyors means gaining a trusted partner for your insurance claim. We ensure:

  • Precise Reporting: Our reports are detailed and reliable, forming a strong foundation for your claim.
  • Efficient Claim Management: We liaise directly with insurers to avoid delays.
  • Quality Assurance: Repairs are overseen to ensure they meet the highest standards.

Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on getting back to normal. Get in touch to discuss your insurance claim today.

Filed Under: Building Surveying, Insurance reinstatement Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,