After a surface water flood

Surface water flooding

What to do

Stay Safe First

• Never touch electrical items if you're standing in water.
• Don’t switch on gas or electricity if there's a chance they’ve been affected by flooding. Wait until a qualified engineer has checked everything and says it’s safe.

Before You Start Cleaning Up

• Contact your insurance company first.
  Don’t throw anything away or start repairs until you’ve spoken to them — doing so could affect your ability to make a claim.
• If you’re renting, call your landlord right away.

Protect Your Belongings

• Gather valuable items that weren’t affected by floodwater.
• Ask friends or family to look after them for safekeeping.

Cleaning Up Safely

• Cover cuts or wounds, wear rubber gloves, and wash your hands thoroughly.
• No clean water? Use wet wipes or hand sanitiser.
• Clean hard surfaces (walls, floors) with hot water and detergent.
• If sewage is involved, disinfect all affected surfaces.
• Don’t eat food that’s touched floodwater.
• Don’t eat fresh food from the fridge or freezer if the power’s been off for more than 4 hours.

Drying Out Your Property

• If using portable heaters, make sure the area is well ventilated.
• Never use petrol or diesel generators indoors — they produce carbon monoxide, which is deadly.
• Drying naturally? Keep windows and doors open.
• Using dehumidifiers? Keep windows and doors closed.

Water Safety

• Notice a change in your tap water? (taste, smell, or colour) — contact your water company.
• On a private water supply? Use bottled water or boil it until it’s safe again.

Repairs and Contractors

• Use reputable contractors only.
• Beware of doorstep scammers.
• Always check references and never pay in advance.

Reporting Flooding in Norfolk

• Report flooding (non-emergency) to Norfolk County Council’s Flood and Water Management Team.
• Email: water.management@norfolk.gov.uk
  Include photos, videos, and as much detail as possible.
  Or report online here.

Look After Yourself and Others

• Flooding is stressful — it’s normal to feel anxious or upset.
• Take care of yourself and your family.
• Check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.