Fears on delays for moving back into flood-hit homes

Watch the video to see the flooding

Residents in flood-hit Streetly today revealed that it could be months before they are able to move back into their severely water-damaged homes.

Some families have been in rented accommodation after a burst pipe left 150 homes in the Blackwood Estate area under 3ft of water.

The flood from Barr Beacon Reservoir sent a deluge of water spilling into streets in November.

But some families who have already spent months away said it may be up to another six months until work is completed.

Craig and Zoe Bullock could only stand and watch as their home in Whitethorn Crescent was badly damaged by the flood water. Mr Bullock, aged 42, today said work had only just begun on repairing their home as it had taken months to dry out.

He said: "Things like this do take a while not least because the house can take four to five months just to dry out before anything can start. We are renting a place to live but it's quite traumatic. It is always in the back of your mind that you're going to have to move again."

Mr Bullock, who works as a mechanic, said his home will have to be stripped completely and a whole new kitchen will need to be put in. He has been advised it could be completed in July or August but fears it could be as long as October.

Emma Travers' home in Aldridge Road was one of the first to be hit, forcing her, her partner and three-year-old son Jenson to be rescued by firefighters.

She has managed to remain in her home but said sorting out the repairs was taking longer than expected and voiced fears it may not be complete by the time her new baby is born in October.

"Things just don't seem to be getting better," said the 24-year-old social care worker.

Crawford and Company is one of the main loss adjustors for around 25 residents in affected streets. In a statement, the company said today: "We have sent a senior adjustor to meet with residents and hopefully things will resolve matters this week."