How businesses can safeguard themselves against flooding

15 Sep

For many businesses in Wales, flooding isn’t a distant risk. It’s something we’ve seen time and time again, hindering many businesses in its tracks. The good news is that there are practical steps you can take right now to reduce the impact.

Start Here:

  • Create a flood action plan. Know how you’ll keep your team safe and resume operations swiftly.
  • Sign up for early warning alerts – every minute counts, and real-time updates give you a head start.
  • Check your insurance – make sure it covers flood damage and business interruption.
  • Protect your property – barriers, raised sockets and pumps can make all the difference.
  • Stay connected locally – Natural Resources Wales and your council share updates that can help you act faster.

These actions not only safeguard your property; they also protect your people, income, and reputation.

Did you Know?

Flooding remains one of the most costly natural hazards facing Welsh businesses. Research indicates that approximately 1 in 7 properties in Wales (around 273,000 homes and businesses) are vulnerable to flooding from rivers, seas, or surface water (Welsh Government, 2024).

Some areas are affected more than others. Places like Roath, Riverside, Canton and Grangetown, along with Port Talbot and the Rhondda valleys, are designated as higher-risk flood zones (Natural Resources Wales, 2023). For businesses in West Wales, the risks differ but are no less serious – coastal flooding and drainage problems can cause unexpected disruptions.

Building Resilience

The truth is that flooding will intensify as our climate changes. However, this doesn’t mean your business has to remain vulnerable. By developing a plan, assessing your risk

with the postcode tool from Natural Resources Wales, and investing in appropriate measures, you will give your business the best chance to recover.

We’ve been standing alongside Welsh businesses for over 50 years. We know the challenges are real, but with the right preparation, the future can remain secure.

How Thomas Carroll Can Help

We understand that preparing for floods can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to assist in making things simpler. Our team can support you with:

  • Review your current insurance cover to make sure flooding and business interruption are properly included.
  • Develop or update a Flood Action Plan tailored to your business and location.
  • Explore practical measures that fit your business needs and budget.

If you would like to talk about how to protect your business against flooding risks, get in touch with our team today on 02920 853788 or contact@thomas-carroll.co.uk

References

1. Welsh Government (2024). Wellbeing of Wales 2024: Resilient Wales. Available at: https://www.gov.wales/wellbeing-wales-2024-resilient-wales-html

2. Natural Resources Wales (2023). Flood Risk Management Annual Report 2023–2024. Available at: https://naturalresources.wales/evidence-and-data/research-and-reports/flooding-reports-evidence-and-data/flood-risk-management-annual-report-2023-2024

3. Natural Resources Wales (2023). Flood Risk in South Central Wales (Cycle 2 Place Section). Available at: https://cdn.cyfoethnaturiol.cymru/302b314q/frmp-cycle-2-place-section-south-central.pdf