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.
