IMPROVING THE UPTAKE OF FLOOD RESILIENCE AT THE INDIVIDUAL PROPERTY LEVEL

Abstract

One of the drivers for improving resilience to flooding at property level (also known as adoption of a ‘water entry strategy’) was demonstrated by the overtopping of hard engineered flood defences across Cumbria, UK during ‘Storm Desmond’ in December 2015. Although the uptake of water exclusion strategies (also termed ‘flood resistance) is gradually improving in the UK, the longer term resilience options that permit water entry are less popular. Findings from an evidence assessment of the barriers and drivers to uptake of low-cost water entry strategy options are presented. Evidence was collected using a Rapid Evidence Assessment of published materials, semi-structured interviews and workshops with professionals, and a series of case studies of properties that had been adapted to flood risk. Factors leading to successful implementation are identified and illustrated by case study material from homes and small businesses. Water entry and water exclusion approaches were found to be seen as two methods used as part of an integrated approach that can bring about important co-benefits such as improved thermal efficiency and lower energy bills.