Property level protection from flooding (PLP) is a range of measures that can be taken to prevent or reduce the damage caused by flooding to individual properties. These measures can be divided into two main categories: resistance and resilience.

Resistance measures aim to prevent water from entering a property in the first place. This can be done by installing physical barriers, such as flood doors and air brick covers, or by raising the level of the property above the expected flood level.

Resilience measures aim to reduce the damage caused by flooding if water does manage to enter a property. This can be done by using materials and fittings that are water-resistant or easy to repair, or by raising electrical sockets and appliances above the expected flood level.

There are a wide range of PLP measures available, and the best approach for a particular property will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of property, its location, and the severity of the flood risk. It is important to get professional advice before installing any PLP measures, to ensure that they are appropriate for the property and that they will be effective in preventing or reducing flood damage.

Here are some of the most common PLP measures:

  • Flood doors and barriers: These are designed to seal off doorways and other openings to prevent water from entering a property.
  • Air brick covers: These are fitted to air bricks to prevent water from entering through them.
  • Non-return valves: These are fitted to drains and sewers to prevent floodwater from backing up into a property.
  • Raised thresholds: These are fitted to doorways and other openings to raise the level of the threshold above the expected flood level.
  • Flood vents: These allow floodwater to flow into and out of a property in a controlled way, reducing the build-up of pressure and preventing structural damage.
  • Raised electrics and appliances: Electrical sockets and appliances can be raised above the expected flood level to prevent them from being damaged.
  • Water-resistant materials and fittings: These can be used throughout a property to reduce the damage caused by flooding.

Contact details of organisations that can help before and after a flood:

Before a flood:

  • Environment Agency: 03708 506 506
  • Floodline: 0345 988 1188
  • National Flood Forum: 01269 593 262

After a flood:

  • Floodline: 0345 988 1188
  • National Flood Forum: 01269 593 262

Documents you will need:

  • Insurance policy documents
  • Proof of ownership of your property (e.g., mortgage or deed)
  • Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license or passport)
  • List of all damaged property, including make, model, serial number, and estimated value
  • Receipts for any repairs or replacements you have made

Checklist of things to do immediately after a flood or substantial ingress of flood water in your home or business:

Safety first!

  • Do not enter your home or business until it has been declared safe to do so by the authorities.
  • Be aware of the risk of electrocution from downed power lines and live electrical wires.
  • Wear protective clothing, such as rubber boots and gloves, when cleaning up floodwater.

Protect your property from further damage:

  • Turn off the gas and electricity to your property.
  • Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
  • Remove any items that may be damaged by water or mold, such as furniture, electronics, and carpets.

Document the damage:

  • Take photos and videos of the damage to your property.
  • Make a list of all damaged property, including make, model, serial number, and estimated value.
  • Keep receipts for any repairs or replacements you have made.

Contact your insurance company:

  • File a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible.
  • Provide your insurance company with all of the necessary documentation, including photos, videos, and a list of damaged property.

Begin the cleanup process:

  • Remove any standing water from your property.
  • Pump out any flooded basements or crawl spaces.
  • Clean and disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with floodwater.
  • Remove any damaged materials, such as carpets and drywall.
  • Dry out your property as quickly as possible.

Prevent mold growth:

  • Keep your property well-ventilated.
  • Use dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air.
  • Clean and disinfect all surfaces that have come into contact with floodwater.
  • Remove any damaged materials, such as carpets and drywall.

Remediation:

  • Once your property is dry and mold-free, you can begin to repair and replace any damaged items.
  • Be sure to get estimates from multiple contractors before making any repairs.
  • Keep all of your receipts for repairs and replacements.

Additional tips:

  • If you have any questions or concerns, contact your insurance company or a qualified flood remediation contractor.
  • Do not sign any documents from your insurance company without first reading them carefully.
  • Be patient and persistent. The flood recovery process can take time.
  • Citizens Advice: 0800 146 888
  • Red Cross: 0345 050 7925

Paper back

This paper back will provide you with more detailed information about property level protection from flooding, including the different types of measures available, how to choose the right measures for your property, and how to get professional advice and installation.

Choosing the right PLP measures

When choosing PLP measures for your property, it is important to consider the following factors:

  • The type of property: Some PLP measures are more suitable for certain types of properties than others. For example, flood doors and barriers may not be suitable for listed buildings.
  • The location of the property: The severity of the flood risk in the area will affect the type of PLP measures required.
  • The budget: PLP measures can range in price from a few hundred pounds to several thousand pounds. It is important to factor in the cost of the measures when making a decision.

Getting professional advice and installation

It is important to get professional advice before installing any PLP measures. A qualified surveyor can assess your property’s flood risk and recommend the most appropriate PLP measures. They can also advise you on the cost of the measures and the installation process. It is also worth discussing with your insurer.

Conclusion

Property level protection from flooding can be a very effective way to protect your home or business from flood damage. However, it is important to choose the right measures for your property and to get professional advice before installation.