Five Festive Facts…
With Christmas now only five weeks away we have put together ‘Five Festive Facts’.
Each one is ‘insurance’ related to the Season. With one fact for each week in the run up to Christmas, we will give some practical advice on how to protect your home, business and family to minimise the risk of any insurance misery.
This week…
#1 Surface Water Flooding
This one is particularly apt given the weather conditions experienced throughout the country at the moment.
Surface water flooding occurs due to the inability of the drains to cope with significant amounts of rainfall in a short period. The Environment Agency defines this as when the rainwater ‘does not drain through the normal drainage systems or soak into the grounds, but lies or flows over ground.’
In 2010 the Flood & Water Management Act (2010) gave Lead Local Flood Authorities responsibility for the management of local flood risk, which includes surface runoff, groundwater and flooding from ordinary watercourses. Under the Flood Risk Regulations (2009) Lead Local Flood Authorities are also responsible for assessing, mapping and planning for local flood risk.
It is difficult however, to assess the like hood of surface water flooding due to the fact that this occurs sporadically and involves extreme rainfall within a period of time. The Environment Agency is unable therefore to provide specific surface flood water alerts.
The Environment Agency has warned that the heavy rainfall and strong winds earlier in the week are currently causing surface water flooding because of leaves and debris blocking drains.
What can I do?
- Keep up to date with current and short term weather predictions with the Environment Agency Three Day Flood Warning Forecast. Visit http://environment-agency.gov.uk , this details expected rainfall and offers some indication as to the risk of surface water flooding. Get further information from local television and radio stations.
- Clear out leaves and other debris regularly from gutters and around drains so that rainwater is able to drain away. This will help protect your home from potential floods, damp and ingress of water.
- Make sure that the roof of your property is in good condition to withstand heavy rainfall and potential strong winds. Seek professional advice where necessary.
- Flood warnings – The best way to stay aware of other potential flooding in your area is to register with the environment agency who send out FREE Flood Warning messages to individuals or businesses via text, email or landline or mobile message. Sign up at https://fwd.environment-agency.gov.uk/app/olr/home
- If you have to make an insurance claim or want any advice regarding the above, call 0121 632 270 for assistance.
Sources: Environment Agency http://environment-agency.gov.uk
