Communities’ secretary Hazel Blears has warned households in flood-hit areas to guard against cowboy builders as she outlined Government commitment to support communities in the long-term task of reconstruction.

According to the Association of British Insurers, 45,000 households have made insurance claims in relation to the June and July floods and 14,500 claims have been received from commercial properties which include damage to hundreds of schools, roads and other infrastructure.

Reconstruction is therefore a key priority in the next phase of recovery efforts. However, there have been reports of both bogus traders and cowboy builders operating in flood-affected areas. Fraudsters are offering various services from re-construction, tree chopping, garden clearance to roof cleaning. The Government has held discussions with the construction and insurance industry as well as local agencies.

Blears said: “While the vast majority of people, including the building industry, are responding positively to the challenge it is extremely saddening that some people are trying to cash-in and exploit the hardship of others. This behaviour is completely deplorable and I would urge residents to be vigilant if they are approached. There are a number of places where people can go for free advice including the National Federation of Builders, the Federation of Master Builders or Consumer Direct.”