19-June-2008
Tanker driver John Brockwell is claiming the company failed to provide the required level of service by not keeping its sewers free-flowing during the June 25 downpour.
His home in Pryme Street and a neighbouring property he owns were both flooded.
Now he has lodged a claim for nearly £5,000 against Yorkshire Water in a small claims action through Hull Combined Court.
If he wins, it could lead to similar claims being made by thousands of flood victims in the area.
Although both his properties were insured for flood damage, the claim relates to stress caused by the floods and uninsured losses – including his annual sewerage charge from Yorkshire Water.
The sewerage charge is a fixed part of every household water bill issued by the company which Mr Brockwell claims he should not have to pay.
He said the stress of being flooded and dealing with the aftermath had been “almost constant” since last June.
Today, a spokeswoman for Yorkshire Water said: “Because legal proceedings have started, it would be inappropriate for us to comment at this stage.”