Environmental problems Didsbury and Northenden flooding: updates and advice

We understand that this is an upsetting and stressful experience. Alongside our local partners, we're here to help and support you.  

First Steps

1. Check safety first
   • Confirm with emergency services that it’s safe to return home. 
2. Check utilities
   • Don’t turn on water, gas, or electricity until they’ve been inspected.
   • Contact your utility company or a qualified engineer for help.
   • If there’s no power, contact Electricity North West.

Using Your Home

• Contact your insurance company
  • Start your claim as soon as possible. They’ll guide you on what to do next.
  • Get more insurance advice.
• No insurance? You’ll need to pay for any temporary housing and repairs yourself. Speak to us if you need help, or the National Flood Forum.
• Renting your home? Your landlord is responsible for repairs caused by flood damage.
• Be cautious with repairs
  • Use reputable contractors. Check references and avoid paying upfront.
  • Be aware of scammers offering door-to-door services.

Clearing Up

1. Protect yourself
   • Wear protective gear: masks, goggles, gloves, and boots.
   • See detailed tips for cleanup on cleaning up after a flood.
2. Dispose of damaged items
   • Check with your insurance company before throwing anything away.
   • Use our bulky collection service.
   • For skip hire, ensure the operator has the correct permit.
   • Take items to your local recycling centre: find your nearest tip.

Food and Water Safety

1. Check your water supply
   • Contact United Utilities if you’re unsure about water safety.
   • Don’t use tap water if it tastes, smells, or looks unusual.
2. Throw away spoiled food
   • Fridge: throw away food if the power was off for more than 4 hours.
   • Freezer: throw away food if the power was off for more than 24 hours.

Health and Wellbeing

1. Look after yourself
   • Feeling anxious is normal. Visit the National Flood Forum for support.
2. Prevent infections
   • Cover open cuts with waterproof plasters.
   • Attend medical appointments unless advised otherwise.
   • If you feel unwell, tell your doctor your home was flooded.

Find more tips for staying healthy after a flood.

Second-hand Furniture and Goods

These organizations provide low-cost or free second-hand furniture and white goods:

• The Wesley Community Furniture
• The Mustard Tree
• The Tree of Life Centre Wythenshawe
• Manchester Freecycle

Useful Contacts

• See more of our information and support around flooding
• National Flood Forum: Help for people without insurance - nationalfloodforum.org.uk
• GM Business Growth Hub: Support for businesses - Call 0161 359 3050 or email bgh@growthco.uk
• Citizens Advice: Tenant advice - citizensadvice.org.uk
• Guinness Housing - Didsbury West: The Guinness Partnership or call 0303 123 1890

Need Help?

If you’re struggling to return home or clear up, contact us:

• Phone: 0161 234 5004
• Email: contact@manchester.gov.uk

Our team is available Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.