Strategies for Home Modification to Reduce Flood Impact
Living in a flood-prone area can be challenging, but with the right preparations and choices, homeowners can significantly reduce the risks and damages caused by floods. Here are some practical tips and resources to help you create a flood-resilient home in Australia.
Choosing Flood-Resilient Materials
When it comes to flooring, polished and sealed concrete or tiles are better options than carpets, as they are more resistant to water damage during flood events. Additionally, replacing hollow core doors with solid core doors can prevent water damage and improve security. For cabinets, consider using water-resistant materials such as marine-grade plywood, sealed composite timber panels, stainless steel, compact laminate, and solid acrylic surfaces.
Preparing for Floods
Knowing your local flood history and risk areas is crucial in preparing for floods. Learn safe evacuation routes and locations, and maintain an Emergency Kit with essentials like a radio, torch, batteries, and first-aid supplies. Ensure that your insurance covers flood damage, and develop an Emergency Plan for your household.
Flood Maps and Regulations
Local governments often have flood maps for their regions that outline the risk of flooding. For example, the Moreton Bay Regional Council in Queensland provides a Flood Hazard Overlay map and code that shows flood risk areas impacting development and property use. In South Australia, the Flood Awareness Map lets you check flood risk by property.
Consult local council requirements if you live in flood-prone areas, as flood maps and regulations may impact property development. Stay informed through state emergency services, such as the South Australian State Emergency Service (SA SES), which offers flood preparation advice and resources.
Raising Appliances and Power Points
Raising standalone appliances in the laundry, such as the washing machine and dryer, can prevent water damage and reduce the risk of electrical problems if there is a flood. Raising hot water units and air conditioners can also help keep these systems operating during a flood event. Installing power points high on walls is a simple and effective way to make a home more flood resilient.
Retrofitting Your Home
If you decide to retrofit your home, it is a good time to consider switching to a more efficient air conditioner and heat pump hot water system. For rural properties, electric water pumps should be placed on a secure, raised platform to keep them dry in the event of flood.
Sealing Tiled Areas
Sealing tiled areas can help prevent the growth of mould and mildew, which can lead to health issues. Flood-resistant grout sealant (sometimes referred to as 'epoxy' or 'semi-epoxy') is recommended for sealing tiled areas. When installing power points in areas affected by water and humidity, it is recommended to use units with adequate water ingress protection ratings and enhanced protection against electric shocks.
Stay Informed
Floods and extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, are becoming more intense and frequent in Australia, including 'flash floods' that can be damaging for homes. Stay informed through state emergency services and specialized flood mapping tools to improve resilience against flooding.
Resources by State and Territory
- Queensland: Moreton Bay Regional Council provides free online tools for property-specific flood information, and development approvals are required for building in Medium or High-risk flood zones.
- South Australia: The South Australian Flood Awareness Map lets you check flood risk by property, and the SA State Emergency Service offers flood preparation advice.
- Broader Australia: The Bureau of Meteorology issues flood extent predictions during events such as tropical cyclones.
By following these tips and staying informed, you can create a flood-resilient home and protect your family and possessions from the damaging effects of floods.
