Following Storm Babet, thousands of properties throughout the United Kingdom have suffered the devastating effects of severe flooding and having to confront the trail of destruction left in its wake. Flooding is one of the biggest threats to homes and businesses in the UK, also ranks among the most financially burdensome and is often compounded by failures to drainage systems.
For residents dwelling in flood-prone areas, the need for a robust and well-functioning drainage system cannot be overstated. Such a system is crucial in mitigating the detrimental effects of both surface water flooding (pluvial) and river flooding (fluvial). While we may be sadly powerless to stop rain, there are proactive measures that can significantly reduce the impact of flooding on your property, and this blog is dedicated to exploring those measures.
1. Investigate Potential Drainage Issues
Do you notice water pooling around your drains? Is there a peculiar odour emanating from your drain, or does it produce a gurgling sound as water trickles down? Any of these signs may indicate a potential drain blockage. In a flood scenario, a blocked drain can create major issues.
As rainwater and other water sources attempt to escape through your drains, encountering an obstruction or an overwhelmed drain, will lead to flooding, causing substantial damage and incurring significant costs. If you suspect any drainage problems, it’s advisable to engage a reputable drainage provider such as Vikings Building Solutions. We possess the expertise to investigate and resolve issues before they escalate.
2. Dispose of Waste Correctly
Your drains should only accommodate water, toilet paper, and the usual, erm, “human biological output”. All other substances should be strictly avoided. The likes of grease, coffee dregs, and food waste can leave you with a blocked kitchen sink. Similarly, nappies, wet wipes, and sanitary products flushed down the toilet can create a blocked toilet drain. Hair is another culprit for crate bathroom drain blockages.
Inadequate waste disposal, when coupled with flooding, exacerbates the situation by introducing additional contaminants into the floodwater. To prevent this, ensure proper waste disposal practices.
3. Maintain Your Drains
The saying “prevention is better than cure” couldn’t be more pertinent. Regular maintenance and inspection of your drains can stave off the worst effects of flooding. Keeping your drains clean and in good working order will bolster their efficiency during flood events.
Failing to maintain your drains may lead to unexpected collapses or other issues, which often surface when your home is already inundated – a situation that is far too late to rectify. Vikings Building Solutions offers both commercial and domestic drain cleaning and maintenance services, ensuring that your drains remain unobstructed throughout the year.
4. Monitor Weather Forecasts
If you reside in an area prone to surface water or river flooding, it’s imperative to stay informed about weather forecasts, particularly during events like Storm Babet. Even if your property isn’t directly in the path of the impending flood, these occurrences are known for their unpredictability and devastation. By keeping a vigilant eye on weather forecasts, you can proactively clear your drains and address any issues that could lead to flooding. Moreover, it allows you to deploy property or flood defences well in advance.
5. Report Any Drainage Issues
While you may only be responsible for the drainage on your property, sewer flooding in your vicinity can still affect your home. Sewers managed by water companies or located on main highways under the jurisdiction of your Local Authority may suffer blockages, resulting in significant flooding. By reporting strange odours or pooling water in roads and walkways near your home, you can prompt the necessary authorities to address other blocked drains in your area.
Conclusion
Storms and adverse weather conditions are an unfortunate reality of living in the UK. Sometimes, acts of nature are beyond our control. However, that does not mean you cannot take measures to reduce or mitigate the risk of flooding in and around your property. A critical component of such preparedness lies in the efficacy of your drainage systems.
Vikings Building Solutions offers a range of drainage services in Coventry and Warwickshire, catering to both domestic and commercial clients. Our services encompass CCTV Surveys, Drain Jetting, Drain Cleaning, Drain Maintenance, and Drain Repairs. For more information, feel get in touch to discuss the ways we can support you.
Remember, taking proactive measures to safeguard your property against flooding can make all the difference during challenging times.
For advice on other proactive flooding defence measures, head to https://www.fsb.org.uk/resources-page/small-businesses-and-flooding-what-are-the-options.html