More than a week after the Avoca River burst its banks in Charlton, business and property owners are continuing to count the cost of the floods, which covered one-third of the town.

The Boyz Cafe in High Street was inundated with water.

Owner Neville Cloak said the cafe had been closed since the flood, which ruined flooring. He expects to re-open on September 21.

Mr Cloak said quotes to replace carpet and lino were between $9000 and $11,000.

“We are in a battle with our insurance company which doesn’t want to cover it,’’ he said.

“It says it was caused by the flood, but we say it was caused by storm water from the drains.’’

Mr Cloak said the insurance company was reviewing its decision.

“It’s a common problem around town,” he said.

“A lot of insurance companies aren’t helping businesses out.

“The government has been great in helping out individuals, but not really businesses.’’

Mr Cloak said Charlton businesses were the most affected of all Victorian towns hit by flooding.

He said it was difficult to estimate how much the flood had financially hurt his business, but took a guess at more than $5000 a week.

Mr Cloak said Charlton people were busy recovering from the flood, which inundated many houses, damaging floors and electrical goods.

“Charlton is a really good community, everyone hops in and helps one another to get sorted,’’ he said.