Help for residents and businesses affected by flooding in York

Following its work to limit the extent and effects of the floods, City of York Council is co-ordinating a raft of support for residents and businesses who may be directly affected by the flooding and could be assessing damage to their homes and any repairs necessary.

From tomorrow council staff are going door-to-door to residents' homes affected by the floods to offer help and support, including leaflets and information. A copy of the leaflet is available hereThis support includes:

Waste collections

Anyone whose home is directly affected by flooding and who has home and or contents insurance should seek advice and get permission from their insurers before removing any damaged items. City of York Council will help residents dispose of flood-damaged waste and anyone needing help after their loss adjusters have visited should call 01904551550. Around 50 skips are being placed around the city in the most affected areas for residents to dispose of their waste. Find these locations here

Council tax

There are no automatic reductions in council tax or business rates for residential or business properties damaged specifically by flood water. However people whose property is no longer habitable and require major repairs. Residents should inform the council tax billing team and ask about their eligibility via 01904 551550 or email council.tax@york.gov.uk while businesses should contact the business rates team also on 01904 551550 or email business.rates@york.gov.uk .

Reputable tradespeople

Households are advised to seek several quotes for repair work from reputable businesses and request references,, where possible, to check on the quality of work. This will enable you to make a more informed decision.

Anyone, including Older and vulnerable residents can use the Home Services Directory a directory of tradespeople who have undergone an assessment procedure. The list is compiled by Age UK York and is available through the charity or online here Meanwhile anyone who believes they may have been approached by a rogue trader or pressurised to buy something they don't want should contact the Citizens Advice Bureau helpline on 03454 04 05 06.

Benefits advice

Every year thousands of people in York lose out on extra income and that could include those affected by the flooding and are entitled to help. Up to one in three people miss out because they do not claim allowances or benefits, discounts or exemptions. City of York Council's benefits advisers are here to help you check entitlements and to help with applications. Contact the team on 01904 551550.

York's Disaster Fund

Residents of the City of York whose homes have been flooded, who are on a low income, have little capital and who are not adequately insured, may be eligible for help from York's Disaster Fund, a registered charity which was established after flooding in York in 2000. Applications to the charity may be made at any time. Businesses are not eligible for help from this fund. For more information about how to apply for a grant, please call City of York Council on 01904 551550.

Disaster Recovery Fund

The recovery fund is supported by Government funding for residents and businesses to pay for additional measures over and above the costs of repairs that would normally be covered by insurance.

Support is available to support small and medium sized businesses to develop and implement business recovery plans. Eligible businesses are able to claim for costs which could include immediate clean-up costs, materials, exceptional business costs (such as hire of drying equipment) and temporary accommodation to enable these businesses to continue trading. Business continuity planning and marketing costs could also be covered. More information will be available soon here