Secure the shot - Focus on Flooding

Flooding is now one of the most significant climate-related threats facing homes and businesses across the UK. Whether you live in a high-risk area or not, the chances of flood damage are rising and it’s vital to understand what that means for you, your insurance, and your peace of mind. In this edition of Secure the Shot, we explain why flood risk is increasing and share practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure and better protect yourself.

Why is flood risk increasing?

The UK’s climate has changed noticeably in recent years, bringing more frequent and severe weather events — including heavy rainfall, flash floods, and rising river levels. Places once considered “low risk” are now experiencing unexpected flooding. This highlights an important truth: you don’t need to be near a river or the coast to be at risk. Aging drainage systems across the country are often overwhelmed and surface water flooding can happen fast when the water can’t get away quick enough. So what can you do to limit the impact if the worst happens?

POINT ONE: Check your postcode to know your flood risk

If you’ve never checked your flood risk, this is a great place to start. Use the Environment Agency’s free flood map tool (Environment Agency’s flood map) by entering the postcode of your home and/or trading locations, such as your studio. You may be surprised to find you’re in an area with higher risk than expected, even without you being near a river, lake or coastline. This tool also lets you register for flood alerts by text or email, giving you early warnings and valuable time to act. A few extra hours can make all the difference.

POINT TWO:  Check your drains and gutters

When heavy rain hits, water needs to drain quickly. Blocked drains — often clogged with leaf litter, debris, or sediment — can prevent water from escaping. If your drains are visibly blocked, take action now to have them cleared. It may cost a little upfront but that investment could save your home or business from significant flood damage. Don’t leave things to chance. A flood doesn’t need to come from a major water source.

POINT THREE: Rethink your storage

Are you storing valuable equipment in a basement or low-lying room? Naturally, these are the first places to flood and contents are often written off completely. If you keep expensive items, like your photographic equipment or important business records, in lower levels of your property, consider relocating them to higher ground as a precaution.

POINT FOUR: Review your insurance cover

Flood damage can be costly, and not all insurance policies provide the same level of protection. Review your home, contents, or business insurance policy to make sure flood cover is included — especially if you’re in or near a risk area. Check for exclusions or limitations and consider speaking to your insurance provider to make sure you’re properly covered, or what options are available to you to get insurance protection, if you are struggling.

POINT FIVE: Create a flood emergency plan

Having a plan in place helps you act quickly when flood warnings are issued. Think about:

• How you’ll safely move people, pets, and valuables. If you’ve already moved your valuables to higher ground, you’ll hopefully have less to think about!
• Where you’ll go if evacuation is needed. Clearly, follow the advice of the emergency services where appropriate but having an idea of where you can place yourself in the event of loss would be an important consideration.
• A grab bag with essentials (medications, documents, chargers, etc). This doesn’t need to be complex, a simple checklist can go a long way.

Flooding may feel like a distant risk, until it isnt. With changes in climate driving more unpredictable weather, taking a few proactive steps now can make all the difference later. From checking your postcode, moving your valuable kit and simply clearing your drains, small actions can go a long way to protecting your home and business from significant loss.