How can landlords protect their properties from flood damage?
Before taking any steps, landlords should assess the flood risk to their property.
Some areas are more susceptible than others, so it's essential to determine your property's vulnerability. The UK Government provides a free service to check flood risk at GOV.UK. If you own property in a high-risk area, consider implementing long-term flood resilience measures to reduce potential damage.
"Landlords with properties in high-risk areas should invest in flood-proofing improvements and bolster their insurance coverage. The initial cost of these measures may seem steep, but if severe flooding occurs, it will be well worth it."
To protect your property from flood damage, landlords, especially those in high-risk zones, can implement a variety of measures:
Use permeable materials for driveways and paths
Install water-resistant windows, doors, and airbricks
Fit non-return valves for toilets and sewer pipes to prevent sewage backups
Install sump and pump systems to remove water from below floor level
Consider adding waterproof doors, skirting boards, and wall sealants
Opt for water-resistant flooring, such as stone or ceramic tiles, rather than wood or carpets
Raise electrical sockets and use high shelves or wall mounts for valuable items
Seal windows and external doors
Install flood alarms
Provide modern sandbags for tenants to block water from entering through doors
By adopting these strategies, landlords can minimise flood risk and damage. More guidance on flood protection can be found through the Property Care Association.
Tenants play a critical role in preventing and responding to floods. It’s important that they report maintenance issues that could increase the risk of flood damage promptly. If your property is in a flood-prone area, it's advisable to provide tenants with clear instructions, both verbally and in writing, on what to do in case of flooding.
"As extreme weather becomes more common, landlords must educate tenants, particularly if the property is far from their residence. Tenants should have access to sandbags and know how to shut off gas, electricity, and water in an emergency."
Regular maintenance and proper communication with tenants are both crucial to reducing potential damage. It’s a good idea to provide your tenants with a welcome pack which includes any relevant information and instructions on what to do in the event of a flood.
Landlords are responsible for maintaining external structures like drains and gutters. Keeping these clear helps water flow away from the property during heavy rain. Check gutters, downspouts and drains regularly to avoid blockages that can lead to floods.
Routine drain maintenance is essential. Clogged drains, even from minor debris, can cause flooding if water levels rise quickly during a storm. It's important to note that flood insurance does not cover damage caused by neglect or wear and tear, so staying on top of maintenance responsibilities is key.
The Government provides a free flood warning service on GOV.UK. By signing up, landlords and tenants can receive alerts about imminent floods in their area. This service covers risks from rivers, the sea, and groundwater, and helps to prepare for potential flooding.
The Environment Agency has highlighted the impact of flood damage on mental health, advising people of the importance of signing up to flood alerts.
Low income households are amongst the most at risk of flooding and 61% of low-income renters don’t have home contents insurance.
