A NEW warning of increased flood risk challenges has been issued in the wake of the recent flooding in Warrington, Lymm and elsewhere in Cheshire.
It comes from the national trade body the Property Care Association (PCA).
Dangerous flash flooding, rising water tables, and difficulties accessing insurance are among the increasing flood risk challenges faced by households, the organisation says.
They are calling for a strategic approach to flood risk in a bid to encourage better resilience as the UK government aims to fulfil its manifesto pledge to build 1.5 million homes.
Earlier this year, the PCA raised the need for a cohesive strategy for flood risk at planning, community and individual levels to the Bricks and Water cross-party committee at the House of Lords.
The trade body also indicated that post-flood repair costs are set to spiral for insurers and property owners, while the expiration of the Flood Re initiative between the government and insurers in 2039 could result in appropriate household insurance not being provided for property in flood risk areas.
Andrew Devitt, technical manager (waterproofing) at the PCA said: “The current approach to flood mitigation is uncoordinated resulting in low uptake of currently available flood resilience schemes, despite clear evidence that homes that are resiliently designed are effectively protected from future flood events.
“There are many causes of flooding, including rising water tables and changing weather patterns – and the challenges are mounting.
“Lack of investment in our drainage infrastructure and development of the urban landscape – particularly in view of the government’s housing pledge – means more homes are falling within expanding zones of flood risk.
“The PCA vision is to ensure there is a recognised route to competence for surveyors, so they can properly understand the risk and impact on the built environment, both existing and new build.”
Mr Devitt added: “The PCA has a network of members involved in flood protection and aims to further develop specialist training so surveyors can deliver actionable solutions and enable insurers to reassess financial risks and potentially extend cover to properties that are currently deemed uninsurable.
“This is an ambitious undertaking, but we are confident that the PCA and its members possess the knowledge and skill sets required to establish an effective, structured approach to flood risk assessment and mitigation.
“Together, we can make meaningful progress toward protecting homes, communities, and infrastructure from the devastating impacts of flooding.”
For help and advice about flood resistance and resilience measures, go to: https://www.property-care.org/homeowners