Protecting your property from flooding
Protecting your property from flooding requires measures like drainage systems, flood barriers, and elevating structures to minimise water damage
The risk of flooding in the UK is rising as the UK’s weather becomes more unpredictable.
Flooding is one of the top three increasing claim types at Total Landlord, with the average flood claim totalling £13,739.
One of Total Landlord’s highest ever claims - for a staggering £143,755 - was for a flood caused by storm Desmond which meant that the tenants had to be evacuated after an entire street was flooded.
With unsettled weather on the increase and a rise in flash floods that often occur with very little warning, landlords should do all they can to reduce the risks and impact of flooding.
Check your risk of flooding at GOV.UK
If your property is in a high flood risk area, consider taking the following steps:
Use permeable paving surfaces
Install water-resistant windows, doors and flooring instead of carpets and wooden floors
Use waterproof wall sealant
Keep lightweight sandbags or equivalent for tenants to use to prevent water from entering the property through exterior doors and vents
Install non-return valves for toilets and sewer pipes, to stop water from backing up into the property if groundwater rises
Ask tenants to let you know if they spot any maintenance issues that could increase the risk of damage if the property was flooded
Talk to your tenants in person about what to do if there is a flood, and include this information in their welcome pack
Make sure tenants know how to turn off the gas, electricity and water
Flood insurance doesn’t cover maintenance, damage that occurs gradually over time or any pre-existing damage or wear and tear, so make sure you keep your property in a good state of repair
Keep drains and gutters clear of debris so that if there is a flood water can run away from the property
If a property is very high risk, it may be worth having a built-in sump and pump system to pump out water from below floor level
