Flood relief: What you can salvage and how to clean-up flood damage

It can be difficult to assess water damage and mould after heavy rain or flooding. Here is some handy advice on what you need to do, and how to safely clean.

When the big wet arrives.

The recovery from the recent catastrophic flooding that swept through large areas of Queensland and New South Wales is expected to take months, with experts declaring it one of the worst weather events in history. The amount of rain was similar to that experienced in a cyclone with people stranded on bridges and rooftops, and cars washing down flooded streets. Already, insurers say the cost of claims has reached more than $1.3 billion, but expect the figure to increase as property owners return to their homes.

The Insurance Council of Australia say it’s “shaping up to be one of the most significant events this country has experienced”. Hopefully you were lucky enough to be spared from the floods. But either way it pays to know what to do when and if you suffer water damage in your home, be it from an official natural disaster, such as this one, or one that affects your house only, say, a broken pipe, a slow leak in the roof or even a localised flash flood. Forewarned is forearmed, as they say, so here is a thorough guide to rescue, repair and restore any water damage you might experience in the future.

Assess the damage and make the call.

WHEN SHOULD I CALL THE SES?

The SES says call if there is a tree threatening to fall on your property or driveway or has already fallen and blocked access to your home. You should also call if your property has flooded or is in danger of flooding, your roof is damaged or leaking, or there is damage to your property that needs to immediately be made safe and you cannot fix yourself. Otherwise, call your insurance company or a tradesperson to help with repairs. If someone is trapped or injured in a flood or storm, or there is another life-threatening emergency, always call triple-0 (000).

Wet carpet equals bad smells and mould, so it needs to go.

MY CARPET GOT SOAKED. WHAT DO I DO NOW?

Wet carpets must be dealt with promptly. Mould can start to grow within 24 hours – carpet that remains wet for 72 hours may need to be replaced, says Jim’s Cleaning founder Haydar Hussein. Wet/dry vacuums, fans and dehumidifiers can all quickly remove excess water and encourage drying but it can still take several days. Once dry, Haydar recommends steam cleaning to sanitise and deodorise carpets.

If the carpet has padding then it is usually best to remove and replace it but, in most instances, the carpet can be saved.

“Black water (from raw sewage and other sources that contain bacteria and viruses) is the one scenario where the carpet is ruined if it gets wet,’’ Haydar says. “Otherwise, carpet can usually be restored if it’s been wet for less than 48 hours and the pad is removed.’’

Roof leaking?

I THINK MY ROOF IS DAMAGED – WHAT NOW?

Loose flashings and roof screws may cause your roof to fly away during strong winds so make sure you check and tighten or replace them immediately.

For any other roof repairs – or if water levels reached your guttering – seek the help of a professional, says Certified Roofing director Mick Bentham. “When it comes to floods, if the floodwater reaches up to the gutter line, or even past the gutter line, the pressure of the water can actually pop (lift) your roof and loosen the entire roof structure,’’ Mick says.

“If that’s the case, you’re going to need an engineer to check the structure and you may need a new roof.’’

 Mick says that even seemingly minimal roof damage cannot be ignored but warns that inspecting roofing, like any uneven surface at height, can be dangerous so homeowners should exercise extreme caution. “One of the most important but vulnerable parts of a home is the roof,’’ he says. “If your roof is not watertight, then a storm can cause secondary damage and leave the rest of your home vulnerable. “Many people think that they save money through DIY measures. But the truth is, calling a professional can be more cost effective.’’

Wait until the brown water recedes before attempting to clean the pool.

MY POOL IS NOW BROWN WITH STORMWATER. WHAT DO I DO?

Whatever you do, do not drain your pool, says Mr Pool Man head of operations Tom Hintze. While draining seems the logical solution, a change in hydrostatic pressure could cause your pool to bow, bend or even pop out of the ground.

Instead, leave the pool as full as possible until the surrounding area (to a depth the same as the pool) has thoroughly dried.

In the meantime, clear as much debris from the pool as you can and then ‘shock’, or sanitise, it with a treatment of chlorine and hydrochloric acid. Wait for any remaining dirt and debris to settle to the bottom before cleaning with a pool vacuum.

Tom says using the filtration system will not help as fine silt particles are too small to be trapped and will recirculate back into the pool. He says extreme caution should be used when dealing with flooded pools.

“Ensure any power to the pool is turned off and get it checked and tested before turning it back on,’’ he says.

“Usually with floods there can also be a lot of contaminants in the water so be very careful – don’t enter the pool or come into contact with the water because you could end up with all sorts of eye and ear infections.’’

Ugghh, mould is never a good sight.

HOW DO I DEAL WITH MOULD?

National Asthma Council chief executive officer Bill Petch recommends using a naturally fermented white vinegar solution, or other mould-reduction cleaners, to clean visible mould and also eliminate the source. He says opening all doors and windows and using fans and dehumidifiers will help dry the area and prevent mould outbreaks. Keep an eye on unflooded areas of the home too.  

“When mould is present, small particles called spores are released in the air, which can trigger asthma and allergy symptoms,’’ Bill says.  

“The symptoms can include nose, eye and skin irritation, coughing, sneezing or wheezing and severe reactions in some people. Even if you have thoroughly cleaned your home you can still have problems with mould. It can grow in places we don’t even think to look – walls, clothes, books and toys so anything that has touched floodwater should ideally be removed and discarded safely.’’

CHOICE says bleach can kill fungi but it needs to be at a 10 per cent concentration to work. Even at a higher potency, bleach won’t penetrate porous materials so if the mould is growing on plaster, grout or wood, it will kill surface mould only. Be aware that strong bleach can also damage grout and tiles.

Dry out whatever you can using an industrial fan or dehumidifier such as this.

WHAT DOES A DEHUMIDIFIER DO AND SHOULD I GET ONE?

A dehumidifier converts wet air into dry air. These appliances can be an excellent aid in removing moisture from a room – quality ones can remove up to 50 litres of water a day. But Ausclimate co-founder Allan Bryan, whose background is in water damage restoration, says dehumidifiers are not appropriate for all flooding situations.

“If people have had water flowing through their home, that’s serious and they need to have a proper professional come in,’’ Allan says.

“Any water from outside flowing into your home is categorised as black water and is considered to be contaminated – it could be sewage, it could be anything.

“However, if you have had some storms and you left a window open or your roof was leaking, and the water coming in is clean water, then you can salvage things by using a dehumidifier.’’

Before using a dehumidifier, remove as much water as possible from carpets by rolling up towels and standing on them to draw up excess moisture – a simple technique that even the professionals use, says Allan. Then place the humidifier in the room and turn it on, closing all doors and windows. If possible, use fans to circulate the air and speed the drying process.

It may take anywhere from 24 hours to several days but “you can dry rooms out 100 per cent this way,’’ Allan says.

Precious memories are worth saving.

MY PHOTO ALBUMS ARE DAMP – CAN I SAVE THEM?

Prioritise the photos you wish to salvage, starting with those that don’t have negatives or digital copies and cannot be replaced, says Prolab digital services manager Brian Peel.

Gently remove the photos from their album or frame, being careful not to disturb the emulsion (image surface). If photos are stuck together, or framed photos are stuck to the inside glass, rinse them with clean water until they separate.

Rinse both sides of the photo with cold water to remove any dirt or contaminants, then dry them image side up on a clean paper towel. Don’t use newspaper or similar printed paper as the print may transfer to the photo, says Brian.

Alternatively, place the photos between sheets of greaseproof paper, seal them in an airtight bag and freeze them to prevent mould growth. Later, a hairdryer can be used to carefully dry each photo.

Drying photos in direct sunlight, or in wind and high temperatures, is not recommended as it can cause fading and curling.

“As soon as you can commence with the drying process the better, but please do not leave it for more than two days as the longer the images are left unattended the more likely they will be stuck together, which can make them unsalvageable,’’ Brian says.

“When coming into direct contact with the print, the best practice is to handle it with gloves to reduce any unnecessary contaminations, tearing or staining to the surface.’’

If in doubt, take your photographs to a professional conservator.

No one expects another flood, but it does happen, this was the Brisbane flood of 2011.

THE OUTSIDE OF MY HOUSE IS DIRTY. IS THERE AN EASY WAY TO REMOVE MUD AND MOULD?

Dirty exterior walls will hinder the drying process so should be cleaned with water and detergent as soon as possible, says Archicentre Australia director Peter Georgiev.

Use a stiff nylon or bristle brush for brickwork or blockwork and a soft brush or cloth for timber.

“Do not water-blast, as this is too aggressive and can do more harm than good,’’ says Peter.

If you have a weatherboard home, removing the bottom two or three boards will expose the bottom plates and sub-floor framing and assist with drying. For sheet clad buildings where the sheets span from top to bottom, it may be necessary for them to be completely removed.

Independent online authority BUILD suggests scrubbing walls with borax and water. If you choose to use bleach, wear old clothes, protective goggles and breathing gear. Also water any plants near your walls first – this will stop them absorbing too much chemical.

If your plants are especially sensitive, consider adding a small amount of limestone to your garden to neutralise the acidity of the bleach.

Always look for signs of damage.

WHAT DO I DO IF I NEED TO MAKE AN INSURANCE CLAIM?

Property owners should contact their insurance company as soon as possible to lodge a claim. If you have sustained roof damage, your insurer will arrange emergency works to minimise any hazards and prevent further damage, says Insurance Council of Australia chief executive Andrew Hall. Before you start any clean-up, Andrew suggests taking pictures or videos of damage to the property as evidence for your claim. Remove water damaged goods, such as saturated carpets and soft furnishings, that might pose a health risk but keep samples of the materials and fabrics to show your insurance assessor. Make a list of each item damaged and include a detailed description, such as brand, model and serial number, if possible. If water has entered the property, do not turn on the electricity until it has been inspected by an electrician. Andrew recommends speaking to your insurer before you attempt or authorise any building work, including emergency repairs, and ask for the insurer’s permission in writing. Unauthorised work may not be covered by your policy. Be sure to keep any goods that can be salvaged or repaired.

He says even those who do not hold flood insurance may still be eligible to lodge a claim.

“Following the 2011 Brisbane floods, insurance policies now have a standard flood definition. If a policy holder has opted out of flood they are most likely still covered for storm damage, and if they are unsure they should speak with their insurer,’’ he says.

Books damaged in the flood.

MY BOOKS ARE WET. DO I TOSS THEM OUT?

If the books are easily replaced, it’s probably best to throw them out but, if they have sentimental value, there are steps you can take to try to salvage them, says National Library of Australia acting preventive conservator Cheryl Jackson. Within 48 hours of water damage occurring, wrap each affected book in greaseproof paper and pop it in the freezer. Not only does this prevent mould growth, it gives you time to deal with more immediate concerns, Cheryl says. If you have a freezer with a defrost cycle, it will also start to dry the books for you. When you are ready, take each book from the freezer and allow it to thaw. Then place paper towels at 20-page intervals throughout the book. When those paper towels become wet, remove them and place new paper towel in between where you placed the first lot (ie; at pages 10, 30, 50 and so on). Repeat the process, staggering the intervals each time until every page of the book is dry.

Cheryl says the process can be laborious and recommends only drying a “manageable’’ bundle of books at a time, leaving the remainder in the freezer for safe keeping.
“They’re never going to look brand new, the pages will be cockled and they’re always going to show evidence of having been water damaged, which is why we say to only do it for books that are irreplaceable,’’ she says. Cheryl says other paper-based products, including medical records, can be dried in the same manner while textiles such as heirloom quilts, baby blankets and show ribbons can also be safely frozen to prevent mould until you are ready to tackle them.

Umm, no, don’t drive your car after it’s been water damaged.

MY CAR WAS WATER DAMAGED. CAN I STILL DRIVE IT?

If floodwaters reached the lower levels of your vehicle’s doors then don’t even attempt to drive it – it’s probably a write-off, says NRMA roadside assistance general manager Simon Denic.

“Water can ruin mechanical components – destroying combustion systems or spoiling lubrication in transmissions – and also electrical systems located in the passenger compartment, including airbag computers, which are typically positioned under the front seats,’’ he says.

He says floodwaters can also clog cars with mud and silt, increasing the difficulty and cost of repairs. In the unlikely event a flood-damaged car is declared usable, Simon says it must be serviced before it is used.

“Key safety components such as steering and brakes will need to be tested, all fluids will likely need to be drained to combat contamination and all cooling and ventilation systems must be checked for debris,’’ he says.

“Petrol engines typically need to be hand-turned with the spark plugs removed to drain fluid from the cylinder chambers but diesel blocks require more complex solutions.’’

Transmissions may also need to be checked and overhauled before the engine is started, while wheel bearings may be damaged by moisture. Simon says water-affected electrical components may be at risk of corrosion and cause long-term driving problems.

Coming face-to-face with one of these could be your worse nightmare.

I’VE HEARD THAT SNAKES ARE A RISK AFTER FLOODING. SHOULD I BE WORRIED?

Authorities have warned that all kinds of wildlife, including snakes and large lizards such as goannas, may have been displaced or injured by floodwaters and be seeking shelter around your home.

Residents should to wear enclosed footwear, gloves and suitable clothing when clearing impacted homes, garages and sheds and to thoroughly check under furniture and objects where reptiles, spiders and insects could be hiding.

“Residents are also reminded to steer clear of entering floodwaters as wildlife, including snakes and animal carcasses, can be found in flooded water systems and drains, as well as other contaminants and debris,’’ advised the Queensland Environment department.

Snakes are protected and, as such, it is an offence to kill, injure or take them from the wild. For help with sick, injured or orphaned wildlife that are not dangerous, contact 1300 ANIMAL (1300 264 625) for advice or to have the animal rescued. |

IS MY RAINWATER SAFE FOR DRINKING?

Rainwater tanks and bore water-holding tanks that have been impacted by storms and floods are likely to contain harmful micro-organisms so, before returning to your home, make sure you have an adequate supply of drinking water (either bottled water or water from a town water supply).

NSW Health advises tanks should be emptied and the inside should be hosed out with clean water. Refill the tank with clean, safe water and then disinfect it with chlorine (check the guidelines at www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/water/Pages/rainwater.aspx

for how much chlorine is required for the size of your tank).

After the tank water has been disinfected, flush all associated taps for a few minutes to remove any contaminated water in the plumbing lines. Remove any screens, flow regulators and aerators and thoroughly clean the tap and all parts with hot water and detergent, then follow up with a mild disinfectant. Rinse, reassemble the tap and run the water for another few minutes before using.

Assess the damage and switch off your power.

CAN I STILL USE THE ELECTRICITY IN MY HOME?

No one should enter a flood-affected property without first ensuring the energised electrical wiring has been shut off or disconnected, say Essential Energy’s Paul McWilliam.

Don’t plug in or use any electrical appliances until you have had them checked by a qualified electrician and, if your home has been inundated with water, you will also need the electrician to visually inspect and test the power supply. An Authorised Level 2 Service Provider will then be able to reconnect power to your property, says Paul.

If you receive a shock or tingly sensation from any electrical appliances, plumbing, metal, sink or bath, move away from the object and report the problem to your electricity provider on their 24-hour power outage line.

Also take care around solar panel installations, which can generate an electrical current even if the electricity has been turned off. Paul says the electrical danger from flooding is not restricted to homes and buildings, warning people to take care near powerlines.  
“We need people to be aware that as the rivers are so much higher, anyone on a boat or SUP or in a kayak is a lot closer to powerlines, so please stay out of floodwaters unless there’s a critical need,’’ he says.

Make a plan for next time but do it now.

HOW DO I PREVENT FLOOD DAMAGE IN THE FUTURE?

There is no such thing as a floodproof home but there are design and building techniques that can reduce a flood’s impact.

“Flood-resilient design aims to enable people to effectively live through an event and then wash it out very easily afterwards,’’ says James Davidson, principal architect of JDA Co.

“The house elements that we look into are typically flooring materials, wall materials and construction systems related to non-cavity construction.’’

Evolved Construction director Tom Yabsley says like-for-like replacements are standard in flood repairs but this leaves homes vulnerable to the same damage the next time a flood occurs.

“From a sustainability point of view, flood-resilient building is a commonsense approach,’’ Tom says. “Flood-resilient building is basically about looking at every room as a wet room.  “We’ll waterproof it like we would a bathroom, so we’re tanking the walls to the floor and that reduces the possibility of water getting into the cavity.’’

To minimise future flood damage, Brisbane Sustainability Agency suggest raising electrical outlets and hot water units and using flood-resilient materials such as solid core doors, marine ply cabinetry and freestanding furniture that is easily moved in preparation for a flood.

Outside the home, consider using debris-free balustrading and choose permeable screens

and fences.