There are lots of different flood protection products and suppliers on the market. You should look for products that are appropriate for your property and also work for you.
Products tested to industry standards
Before buying a flood product check it has been tested to industry standards and it is up to the job. It should display the Kitemark symbol or equivalent accreditation if it has been tested properly.
Kitemark
Be careful to consider all the ways water can enter your property. For example, in addition to flood boards across your doorways you may also need to install airbrick covers and non-return valves on your drainage system.
Blue Pages
Blue Pages is an independent directory of flood protection products and service providers. This directory is put together by the National Flood Forum.
Flood Protection Association
The Flood Protection Association is the industry association for flood protection suppliers and service providers. Their website contains useful information about protecting homes and business.
Seek professional advice
We strongly recommended that you seek professional advice from a building surveyor, architect or other independent professional if you are considering flood protection solutions for your property.
There is no formal assurance scheme for flood surveyors, but the following professional institutions hold lists of members who have undergone internal vetting and adhere to a common code of conduct:
Check with your local Environment Agency office if you plan to take measures which could affect the flow of a river or divert flood water to other properties. Call us on 03708 506 506 and ask to speak to someone in the Partnerships and Strategic Overview team in your local area.
Information warning
There is no guarantee that any flood protection system will work and the Environment Agency does not endorse a particular product or supplier.
It is the responsibility of the purchaser to ensure the products are appropriate for their property, fit for purpose, correctly fitted and meet their specific needs. It's important to be aware that using flood products may make flood water outside the protected area more dangerous by making it flow faster. If flood water overwhelms a barrier, it may have a more catastrophic effect than if the area had flooded gradually.
