Indoor Flooding Focus

12/18/2018 (Permalink)

Flooding can be associated with water intrusion from and ocean, reservoir, river or canal. However,  in Northern Virginia flooding is frequently caused by intense rainstorms or melting snow with which drainage systems cannot cope. The risk of the premises being affected by floodwater needs to be assessed and appropriate precautions taken. Some buildings constructed using modern methods of construction can be particularly susceptible to damage from flooding. In some cases additional flood protection measures over and above country specific Building Regulations’ requirements may be necessary to adequately protect the premises against permanent floodwater damage.

The following general points should be considered in relation to flooding:

1. Check whether there has been a history of flooding in the area.

1. Check the current local flood risk with the responsible Government agency.

1. Have recent developments in the area made flooding more likely?

1. Local Government agencies and local water companies/authorities should be able to advise on specific areas which are liable to flood, and on recent modifications to drainage routes.

1. Have the authorities installed new flood prevention measure?

1. Where applicable, check you understand how the local flood warning system operates and have an emergency plan prepared for such an event.

1. If flooding is known to be a possibility, preventive measures to stop floodwater include: – installation of intervening walls or banks, provision of flood boards and sills to doorways or gateways in walls, – blocking up unnecessary openings in the building, – provision of sandbags for emergency use.

1. Check for any signs of site drains overflowing. If this has occurred, was it due to a blockage or were the drains inadequately sized? – Next time the flood could be more serious.

1. Check that basement areas are provided with adequate drainage. Where necessary, sump pumps should be provided.