Insurers have set out the six key stages in getting those affected by the recent flooding back into their homes and businesses as soon as possible.

According to the Association of British Insurers, repairing a property after a flood can be long and complex and the process can only begin once the building is fully dried out.

While this work is happening insurers have pledged to support customers with emergency payments and, where necessary, arrange temporary accommodation or trading premises for homeowners and businesses.

Below are the six key stages of support and repair for people who’ve been affected:

–      Immediate aftermath: Insurers and their teams are in affected areas contacting customers wherever possible and helping people get their claims under way. If you need to move out of your home or business premises your insurer is there to help you find temporary accommodation.

–      Assessing the damage: If your property or contents have been badly damaged someone may be appointed by your insurer to make an initial assessment of the damage and to explain the repair process, as soon as it is safe to enter your property.

–      Cleaning and stripping out: Your loss adjuster will organise the cleaning and stripping out of your home or business, once the waters have receded. This should start within four weeks of their first visit.

–      Disinfecting and drying out: A drying company will be appointed to disinfect and fully dry out the building. This process can take from a few weeks to several months depending on the extent of water damage.

–      Repair and reconstruction: A builder will be appointed to undertake repair and reconstruction work, or you can talk to your insurer about using a company of your choice, once a certificate is issued by the drying out company. Antibacterial and antifungal treatments will be included.

–      Moving back in: Your insurer or loss adjuster will discuss with you when it is safe for you to return. In some cases this may be many months or more than a year later, particularly if major reconstruction works are required. Your insurer will help pay for alternative accommodation in the meantime.

Mark Shepherd, general insurance manager at the ABI, said: “The suffering of families and businesses affected by flooding goes on long after the flood waters recede. Insurers and their teams of experts will be there alongside them, as the hard work of rebuilding gets under way.