A little knowledge can help reduce flood stress
Flooding will be a new experience for many of the current victims in the UK and being unprepared for what the recovery phase entails can only add to their stress.
The BDMA (British Damage Management Association) has published a leaflet entitled 'Understanding Basic Flood Recovery Procedures', which it hopes will give flood victims an idea of what the recovery process might entail. It includes information on some of the procedures that may need to be carried out, how the condition of a room or property is assessed and measured, and what to expect from a professional technician or contractor. There is also advice for those, particularly the uninsured, who may come under pressure from unscrupulous or inexperienced workmen.
"From talking to flood victims in the past we know they feel the recovery phase would have been less traumatic if they had understood more about the process in advance," says Jonathan Davison, the BDMA's Director for Strategic Development. "While everyone's experience is unique to their particular circumstances, we hope this leaflet will be a positive addition to the overall support available for those affected by the recent flooding incidents."
The BDMA Information Leaflet is being shipped immediately to Environment Agency offices and local authorities in the worst hit regions, with some aiming to distribute copies to every affected household. Additionally, many of the major damage management contractors will now hold stocks and supplies of the leaflet will also be freely available to insurers, loss adjusters and the emergency services, as required.
The restoration of property and possessions after flooding requires specialist knowledge and should be carried out by qualified technicians. The information provided in the leaflet is intended for use in conjunction with advice from insurers or competent professionals.
It is of course impossible to prepare flood victims for everything they will experience at this time, but a better understanding of some of the procedures that may be necessary to restore their property may help to ease some of the anxiety.
Bulk copies of the BDMA information leaflet can be ordered free of charge via:
T: 07000 248007
19th July 2007