Case Study: Post-Flood Clean-Up and Structural Stabilisation

Overview

HD was contacted by a distressed client following a significant internal flood caused by an overflowing water tank. The pressure from the tank failure caused the ceiling to collapse, allowing water to spread rapidly throughout the entire property. Immediate action was required to stabilise the environment, assess the structural condition, and begin restoration works.

Initial Response

Within 24 hours of receiving the call, the HD team attended the site to:

• Assess the full extent of the water damage

• Determine the safety and structural stability of the property

• Establish a plan for safe entry and commencement of strip-out works

Our first priority was ensuring that the building was secure enough for ongoing works and that no further hazards were present.  Before any works could be initiated, we had to test the air and the ceilings for Asbestos.  The air came back negative for asbestos, and the collapsed ceiling was fortunately only plasterboard.  Had the lower ceilings been compromised, the risk would be significantly higher. 

Strip-Out and Damage Mitigation Works

Following the client's instructions and after confirming structural suitability, HD began an extensive clean-up and strip-out process. The works included:

• Removal of collapsed plasterboard from the ceiling

• Extraction of all contaminated roof insulation

• Full strip-out of interior finishes, including:

  • All furnishings

  • Wallpaper

  • Internal doors

  • Damaged flooring throughout the property

  • Stairlift

• Removal of the failed water tank from the attic to prevent further risk

This phase ensured that all wet, damaged, and unsalvageable materials were safely removed to prevent mould growth and secondary structural damage. We hired skips from a local supplier and due to the significant number of removals, some days the skips were replaced multiple times.

Mould Remediation

As the property had been sat for two weeks prior to HD’s involvement, Mould had already started to grow and spread.  We disposed of any furnishings, and decontaminated – removing mould from any walls.  As Mould thrives in damp environments, it was crucial that we wasted no time in stripping the property down as much as possible and start the drying process.

Electrical Safety and Temporary Power

Due to water exposure, the property’s electrical system had to remain isolated. HD coordinated with a qualified electrician to ensure the site remained safe while still enabling drying works to begin. The electrician:

• Fitted a temporary electrical board

• Provided safe, controlled access to power

• Enabled our industrial drying equipment to be operated without risk

This step was crucial for beginning the controlled drying phase of the project.

Drying and Environmental Control

To create an effective drying environment, HD installed:

• Industrial dehumidifiers and air movers

• A temporary covering to the ceiling to help retain heat and stabilise internal temperatures

These measures helped to accelerate the drying process, minimise further deterioration, and prepare the property for restoration.

Outcome

HD’s rapid response, structured approach, and coordinated efforts ensured:

• The property was made safe within 24 hours of the initial call

• All damaged materials were efficiently removed

• The property was decontaminated and Mould removed

• The environment was properly prepared for drying

• The client felt informed, supported, and reassured throughout the process

This comprehensive approach allowed the property to progress quickly toward full restoration, with risks mitigated and drying operations effectively underway.