Flood Defence Guidance
for Communities
Essential Steps to Take After a Flood
Although the initial outlay can be quite
high, such schemes may be eligible for financial assistance from ‘Local Levy’
funding: contact the Regional Flood and Coastal Committeefor your area for more information on this. A number of methods suitable for communities/multiple
properties are available, including:
Stay Safe
Prioritise your safety and that of your loved ones above all else.
Assess Damage
Once safe, evaluate the extent of the damage to your property.
Mass notification and warning systems
These are flood level alarm systems, capable of alerting multiple homes and/or businesses (via sirens, or text messages) if a river or stream reaches dangerous levels. Similar systems can detect unusually high rainfall levels, again alerting multiple properties before surface water flooding occurs.
Permanent perimeter walls/barriers and gating systems
The most costly option, but often preferred as providing the greatest peace of mind. The most important question to be answered here, however, is: “How high is high enough?”
More Information
Expert guidance is essential for all these – as well as information regarding likely water depths and potential duration, factors such as the local geology must also to be taken into account. This is because some soil types allow water to seep through the ground underneath flood walls and gates, rendering them ineffective.
Some permanent structures are also likely to affect the flow patterns of rivers and streams. Such works need special permissions, called ‘Flood Defence Consents’ (in England and Wales) and ‘Controlled Activity Regulations’ (in Scotland). Expert assistance in navigating these complex rules and regulations is advisable.
More information can be found in the Environment Agency’s Flood Plan Guide for Communities and Groups.