Get Expert Advice Urges Trade Body in Cumbrian Flood Aftermath

A trade body representing the building preservation industry is urging property and home owners in Cumbria to get in touch for professional advice following the recent floods.

Those affected by water damage should get expert help on how to care for their homes in the aftermath of the flood, according to the Property Care Association (PCA).

The PCA fears a repeat of the 2007 floods, when the Association was called upon to offer its expertise to assist with a spate of problematic repairs to flood damaged buildings, including properties in Hull, which sustained severe damage.

Steve Hodgson, deputy director of the PCA, formerly the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), said: “We would urge people in Cumbria affected by the recent floods to be aware of ‘cowboy contractors’ offering a quick fix solution.

“In areas such as Hull, we have seen some householders suffer because some remedial works have been carried out with little or no consideration to the effects of water in buildings. 

“As a result, some homes have been repaired and then around six months later householders have been dealt a double blow because the property is blighted by damp and they have to leave their home again for more repairs to be carried out.

”It is important that a ‘right first-time’ approach to flood damage is introduced, to prevent the problems we have had in the past being repeated.”

The PCA has members listed as flood recovery specialists with TrustMark, the scheme supported by government to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.

It also recently launched a new, free online resource centre dedicated to improving the repair and recovery of flooded buildings - as well as the protection and resilience of properties under threat from water.

www.property-care.org/flooding includes a video, news items, details of PCA member training, and downloadable technical information and case studies relating to real flood restoration projects.
Steve added: ““PCA members can offer professional advice on drying-out buildings and what work needs to be done afterwards.

“They can also measure and monitor damp levels and prevent damp, dry rot and other problems taking their toll on a structure months, or even years, later.”

Noted for its training and technical expertise, The PCA represents the UK’s below ground waterproofing, damp control, timber preservation, structural repair and flood restoration sectors

It incorporates the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), which has been in formation for more than 75 years.