The UK's Most at Risk Flood Regions

ProAktive www.selfbuildinsure.co.uk FLOOD RISK THE UK'S MOST AT RISK REGIONS When searching for a site to build on, it is wise for Self-builders to be aware that the risk of flooding in certain areas of the UK is a factor be taken seriously. With some local authorities struggling to find enough land for residential homes, planning permission is sometimes granted for housing on flood plains. While it is preferable to avoid areas at risk of flooding when choosing a plot of land to build on, there are also ways of mitigating damage from flooding in areas where flooding is a problem. A Formby, Merseyside B Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire C Ludgershall, Wiltshire D Lincoln, Lincolnshire E Gainsborough, Lincolnshire F Boothby Gaffoe, Lincolnshire H York, Yorkshire Lake District, Cumbria AREAS AT RISK OF FLOODING FROM SURFACE WATER Coastal erosion high risk areas 20 16 13 F 12 10 8 1 Glastonbury, Somerset 2 Bridgewater, Somerset 3 Highbridge, Somerset 4 New Romney, Kent 5 Rochester, Kent 6 Gillingham, Kent 7 Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex 8 Great Yarmouth, Norfolk 9 Peterborough, Cambridgeshire 10 Holbeach, Cambridgeshire 11 Woodhall Spa, Lincolnshire 12 Boston, Lincolnshire 13 Skegness, Lincolnshire 14 Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire 15 Santoft, Lincolnshire 16 Knottingley, Yorkshire 17 Hull, Yorkshire 18 Nottingham, Nottinghamshire 19 Carlisle, Cumbria 20 Lancaster, Lancashire 21 Oxford, Oxfordshire 22 Windsor, Berkshire AREAS AT RISK OF FLOODING FROM SEA AND RIVERS To find out the flood risk in your area, use the UK government's online map at: flood-warning-information.service.gov.uk/ long-term-flood-risk/map POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS Here we look at two different ways to stop water entering the home. Raising the building off the ground is an option. Piled foundations and 'stilts' can help to redirect floodwater harmlessly underneath the house. In lower risk areas, low lying pond areas or drainage ditches can be created in order to collect water and stop it reaching the house. MITIGATING DAMAGE There are other measures that can be taken to minimise potential damage, should flooding occur. 1.5m Place electrical wiring, sockets and fuse boxes a minimum of 1.5m (5ft) Install tiled flooring in the home and use rugs on the floor, instead of fitted carpets Use water-resistant materials, (e.g. plastic or stainless steel) rather than chipboard above the floor If you're planning a self-build project, you should always ensure you protect your investment with Self Build insurance. ProAktive Self Build developed the first UK Self Build insurance policy in 1984. ProAktive are the industry leaders, with specialists available to discuss your project build, and insurance requirements. ProAktive Doncaster: 01302 346 831 | Follow us O00 www.selfbuildinsure.co.uk