The Environment Agency have produced a useful document on how to protect your home or business from flooding. If yours is an historic building, have a read of Historic England’s advice.
Ask a building surveyor, civil engineer, architect or other independent professional for advice on permanent flood protection measures. Use the flood protection advisor to find out how much it could cost to protect your home.
Contact the Environment Agency if your plans will affect the flow of a river or will divert flood water to other properties.
Environment Agency enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk Telephone: 03708 506 506 Minicom: 03702 422 549 Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Find flood protection products and suppliers
Sandbags are a traditional method of reducing risk. There are numerous difficulties with using Sandbags, but if they are used there is a guide to use them effectively.
Always look for the Kitemark when buying flood protection products.
The National Flood Forum is an independent charity and an excellent source of information on all aspects of flooding.
The National Flood Forum have an excellent directory of all kinds of products and companies which can help reduce the risk of flooding, or reduce the impacts flooding – and speed of recovery.
The guide ‘Six Steps to Property Level Protection’ is also available, as is Know Your Flood Risk’s’ Guide.
Keep the risk of flooding low throughout the year
- Ensure ditches and drains are kept clear from blockages
- (Please be mindful of the habitat of the watercourse for non-humans.)
If you own a riverside property
If you own property next to a watercourse, eg river, culvert, brook or mill stream, you must:
- manage your own flood risk
- maintain river beds and banks
- not obstruct the water flow
Read guidance on the rights and responsibilities of owning a riverside property.
Contact the Environment Agency if you have questions about your responsibilities.
Contact your insurance broker regarding policies for properties at risk of flooding.