Flooding is a growing risk for homes in Great Britain. Property doesn’t necessarily need to be close to a river or the sea or situated on low lying ground to be exposed to flood risk. Surface water, groundwater and overflowing sewers are increasingly common causes of flooding. Aside from the physical damage, if your property is at risk of flooding you may have difficulty obtaining a mortgage and suitable insurance cover. Flood risk is also likely to affect the value of your property, causing you further problems should you decide to sell.

While solicitors are not qualified to give advice on flood risk or interpret technical flood reports, they can help you to investigate the terms on which buildings insurance cover, including flood risk, is available prior to you entering into contractual commitments and liaise with you in relation to which (if any) flood searches or other investigations might be appropriate.

The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) advises that we can all have an impact on the personal flood risk we face by being more prepared for flooding. For example, adapting property to reduce the risk of flooding by changing how water travels across surfaces and is stored. You can find SEPA’s publications on flooding, including what to do and who can help, at http://sepa.org.uk/flooding/flooding_publications.aspx.

To find out if you live in an area at risk of flooding, visit http://map.sepa.org.uk/floodmap/map.htm.

You can also find Flood Risk Policies and Guidance at http://sepa.org.uk/planning/flood_risk/policies_and_guidance.aspx.

Please don’t hesitate to call Johnson Legal Solicitors for advice on 0131 622 9222. We pride ourselves on knowing how, or knowing someone who can.