Nationwide provides advice for homeowners affected by floods

Following the devastating floods affecting parts of Britain at the weekend, Nationwide Building Society offers tips for homeowners who could be affected.

Nationwide recommends those affected by flood waters should:

Inform their insurer as soon as possible - some insurers have a 24 hour helpline for policyholders to call if in need of advice

Carry out emergency repair works that will prevent further damage. However, more permanent or extensive repairs should not be carried out without the prior agreement of the insurance company

Keep affected furniture until authorised to dispose of it by their insurer or a loss adjuster

Keep all receipts

Move essentials and valuables (for example food, clothing and televisions) upstairs to limit damage

Move furniture away from the walls

Not use electricity or gas until advised it is safe to do so

Not drink tap water until advised it is safe to do so

Check whether their insurance company offers alternative accommodation under the terms of their policy

Claim for vehicle damage under their comprehensive car insurance policy

Once the floods have subsided, affected homeowners should:

Oil hinges and locks to prevent corrosion

Leave windows and doors open when they're at home to help dry out the house

With a loss adjuster's approval:

Remove the floor covering

Wash walls and floors with disinfectant and water.

John Baker, Nationwide's head of insurance, says: "The terrible flooding we have seen across the UK has shown just how important it is to have adequate home buildings and contents insurance. Nationwide will do everything it can to assist its policyholders affected by flooding. The Society intends to make the clean-up operation as seamless as possible to ensure people's homes can get back to normal as soon as possible."

Even if homeowners are not affected by flooding, Nationwide recommends people check their insurance policies to ensure that they have adequate cover should the worst happen.