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People and communities

What to do after a flood

There is a range of support and guidance available to residents and businesses who have been affected by flooding in York.

Support for residents affected by flooding:

Support for businesses affected by flooding:


York Disaster Fund

Residents whose homes have been flooded, who have limited means and who are not adequately insured, may be eligible for help from the York Disaster Fund.

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Flooding insurance advice

Contact your insurer if you've been affected by flooding.

Read advice for those recovering from floods from the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Flood Re is a joint Government and insurance industry initiative which aims to help insurers help householders at risk of flooding.

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Choosing trustworthy traders

Read the following advice before choosing a trader to carry out repairs after flooding:

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Flood safety and public health

We have a responsibility for public health and work closely with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Their range of advice for those affected by flooding includes:

When cleaning after floods:

  • wear rubber boots, waterproof gloves and an apron
  • wear a standard face mask and goggles (such as those sold by DIY stores) to protect yourself from water splashes caused by scrubbing, hosing or pressure-washing
  • wash your hands thoroughly after each clean-up session
  • keep open cuts or sores clean, and use waterproof plasters to prevent them being exposed to floodwater

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Travel after flooding

After flooding in York Traffic Management Plans and necessary diversions may still be in place; see our list of temporary road closures for the latest traffic and travel information.

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Cleaning up after flooding

Once river levels recede and when further flooding is not forecast to be imminent, we'll help clear riverside footpaths and car parks of silt, mud and debris using a process known as 'warping'.

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Support from the Major Incident Response Team

The Major Incident Response Team (MIRT) have trained volunteers on hand to provide emotional support to those affected by incidents such as flooding. The MIRT team are here to help, email: MIRT@northyorks.gov.uk.

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Recovering your business safely

Read advice on recovering your business safely after flooding.

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Support for food businesses

There's specific advice from our Food Safety team for food businesses affected by flooding.

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Support with business rates

If your premises have been flooded and you're having problems paying your Business Rates, contact business.rates@york.gov.uk or telephone: 01904 551140.

You may be able to claim an 'empty property exemption' if you have been closed due to flooding.

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Also see

icon of a measuring ruler next to water levels

Find information on how we support residents and businesses to prepare for flooding in York.

Preparing for flooding
icon of a measuring ruler next to water levels

Find information on river levels, flood warnings, travel and supporting vulnerable people during floods.

What to do during flooding