What Happens During a Property Flood Resilience Survey?
Property Flood Resilience surveys are becoming an essential part of how homes and businesses prepare for a future where flooding is more frequent, more unpredictable and often more severe. Here at Ashfield Solutions, we carry out detailed, property specific inspections that show how a building is likely to be affected by flooding and what practical measures can be installed to reduce damage and speed up recovery. The aim is not simply to keep water out at all costs. Modern resilience focuses on making properties adaptable, recoverable and better prepared for the next flood event.
What is a Property Flood Resilience Survey?
A Property Flood Resilience (PFR) survey is a technical inspection of an existing building that identifies practical mitigation measures. It is relevant to homes and businesses already at risk, and it follows national guidance from DEFRA, the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales, aligned with the Code of Practice for PFR (CIRIA C790).
Below is a step by step walkthrough of what happens during a PFR survey and how we at Ashfield Solutions approach each stage.
Step 1. Pre Survey Hazard Assessment
Before visiting the property, our team review available flood information to understand the likely hazards. This can include Environment Agency & Natural Resources Wales flood mapping or commercial flood data, local modelling, historic flood records and surface water and groundwater data. These sources help us estimate realistic flood depths and durations. They also highlight the types of flooding the property may face, whether fluvial, tidal, surface water, groundwater or from artificial sources. This early analysis sets the context for the on site inspection and ensures the survey focuses on the most relevant risks.
Step 2. Understanding Building Construction
Once on site, we begin by examining how the building has been constructed. Walls, floors, foundations and materials all influence how water behaves when it reaches the property. Older buildings often require different approaches to resilience compared with modern construction. We assess the condition of the building fabric, identify vulnerabilities and note any existing resilience measures already in place. This helps us understand how the structure will respond to water pressure, seepage and prolonged exposure.
Step 3. Drainage and Utilities Assessment
Drainage systems can act as hidden pathways for floodwater. During the survey we inspect internal and external drainage connections, gullies, downpipes and service entry points. We look for opportunities where water could enter through pipes or openings, and we assess whether non return valves or other protective components may be required. Utilities such as electrics, boilers and plant rooms are also reviewed, as their location and height can significantly influence recovery time after a flood.
Step 4. Layout and Internal Configuration
The internal layout of a property affects how water moves once it enters. We record floor levels, room arrangements and the position of critical assets. This helps us understand how quickly water could spread and which areas would be most affected. The survey also considers how internal materials, fixtures and finishes would perform if they were exposed to floodwater.
Step 5. Entry Points and Flood Pathway Analysis
Flood pathway analysis is a core part of the PFR process and aligns with the national PFR Code of Practice. We examine external ground levels, doors, windows, airbricks, vents and any gaps or openings that could allow water to enter. By combining this with the hazard assessment, we build a clear picture of how water is most likely to reach the building and which routes it would take. This analysis is essential for designing effective resistance and recoverability measures.
Step 6. Vulnerability assessment
All findings from the inspection are brought together to identify the property’s key vulnerabilities. These may include low thresholds, permeable materials, exposed service entries or drainage weaknesses. We also consider how the building has performed in past flood events, where relevant. This stage provides the foundation for the options appraisal that follows.
Step 7. Options Appraisal and Recommendations
Ashfield Solutions produce a tailored set of recommendations based on the property’s specific needs. These may include resistance measures such as flood doors, barriers, airbrick covers and non return valves, or recoverability measures such as raised electrics, water resistant flooring, flood compatible insulation, sump pumps and materials designed to tolerate immersion. We always stress that PFR is not a one size fits all exercise. Every measure must be appropriate for the building type, the flood hazard and the way the property is used.
Step 8. Costed Action plan and Insurance Aligned Reporting
Our PFR survey outputs include an action plan with priority actions, indicative costs, maintenance requirements and expected performance in different flood depths. This roadmap to resilience helps property owners understand what is required and how much it will cost. Our reports are suitable for insurers, loss adjusters and grant funding applications, including schemes such as Aviva’s Build Back Better programme. As a Specialist Partner to Aviva Risk Management Solutions, we provide the technical evidence insurers need before resilience measures can be funded and installed.
Step 9. Clear Next Steps
With decades of combined experience managing flood risk, our team ensure clients have everything they need to move forward confidently. Our industry contacts and partnerships allow us to turn around reports quickly and provide clear guidance on the next steps.
If you would like to arrange a Property Flood Resilience survey or discuss how resilience measures could better protect your home or business, contact Ashfield Solutions today.
