According to statistics, one in six properties in England (around 5.2 million) is at risk of flooding from the sea or rivers. In addition to this, a further 2.8 million properties are susceptible to surface water flooding alone.
As sea levels rise due to climate change, and the weather becoming more erratic and extreme, surveys show that your home is more likely to be flooded than burgled. In England, the most common causes of flooding are rivers, the coast, sewers, and groundwater flooding- and can have dire effects in the aftermath of a flood. Properties, communities, and essential energy, water, communications, and transport infrastructures are indirectly impacted by flooding and they can also interfere with vital services such as schools, hospitals, and emergency services.
As of 2020, the average cost in the UK to repair and flood-proof a 3-bedroom home stands at around £30,000. The process of assessing damage and lodging insurance claims to get homeowners’ lives back on track can take months- and there is pressure to clamp down on ensuring homeowners have taken the proper precautions to tackle the damaging effects of a flood and protect their property. If you are looking to flood-proof your property, We Buy Any House has assembled our top 10 tips.
Tip #1- Personal Risk Assessment:
Perhaps not a precaution, but worth being on the list is pre-flood preparation in evacuation. Before we begin to discuss ways to protect your property, it is essential to protect human life. The measures we are about to discuss are solely based on the protection of a house, and while they are effective, you should not endanger your life or the lives of your loved ones to salvage sentimental items.
One of the first things you should do is prepare evacuation items and a plan for you and your family, especially if you live in a high-risk flood area. Gather an emergency kit consisting of extra clothing, insurance policy numbers, vital contact information, toiletries, and enough cash to last you a few days.
Tip #2- Seal the Cracks:
Purchase some affordable mortar and masonry caulk to fill in any gaps in the foundation. Ensuring you have no cracks in or around the property foundation will reduce the amount of water that can seep into your home. Another option is to apply a sealant to walls, windows, doorways, and foundations to stop water from penetrating your home.
Tip #3- Battery Powered Sump Pump:
Sump Pumps are a necessity during a flood. They work by pumping the water out of the property and run-on electricity. It provides an outlet for floodwater and relieves the pressure water build-up can put on walls and windows. Make sure it is always charged sufficiently to get the best results.
Tip #4- Relocate Items:
If you have the option to move sentimental items to higher ground, then do so. Moving valuables away from the first floor will reduce the amount of damage done if the floodwaters can breach your doors.
Tip #5- Grade the Grass Away from Your Home:
If your garden is leaning or tilted towards your house, rain or flood water will begin to pool there and slowly seep into the property. Grading your grass away from the property will encourage flood or rainwater to flow away from home instead of penetrating the walls. Additionally, use heavy soil that contains sand and clay to regrade your grass.
Tip #6- Raise Outlets and Switches:
If you have the opportunity to raise your outlets and switch to a higher place, then take advantage of this. Ensuring electrical equipment is at least one foot above the average flood level will help to reduce the risk of electrical damage.
Tip #7- Flood Barriers:
Floodwater can enter a property through the front door and leave via the back door- destroying everything en route. Proper doorway flood protection can prevent and lessen the damaging effects and can be easily fitted. They work by inhibiting water flow into the property by diverting it in another direction. Flood barriers work well with sandbags, so it’s worthwhile thinking about investing in some. Sandbags essentially act like disposable nappies and can soak up around 20 liters of water and mop up residue. Place them around the entrances and exits of the property to create a wall-like barrier.
Tip #8- Flood Sensors:
Sending an alert via smart devices such as phones, tablets, or laptops, flood sensors provide your home with protection from leaks and potential further water damage. The device works by detecting moisture in spaces that should typically be dry and then sends an alert to reduce water damage.
Tip #9- Raise Your Home:
Although it is expensive to build retroactively, it may be worthwhile in the long run. If your property is prone to flooding, you could contribute the expenses in damage repair in the aftermath of a flood towards raising your home from ground level. Building the house on stilts will reduce significant damage- substantially protecting your home.
Tip #10- Preventative Steps:
If you know a flood is imminent, take these precautions to reduce the water damage done to your property:
▫ Clear gutters and drains so water can flow freely.
▫ Shut off electricity at the breaker panel if the water is close to your electrical system.
▫ Photograph any flooding to document damage and defend your claim with the insurance provider.
▫ Turn off the water line if that’s the source of flooding.
