Get Expert Advice urges Trade Body in Scottish Floods Aftermath

A trade body representing the flood damage repair industry is urging property and home owners in Scotland to get in touch for professional advice following the recent floods.

The Property Care Association (PCA) suggests householders affected by water damage get expert help on how to care for their homes.

Last year the PCA developed the Flood Restoration Group in a bid to tackle a spate of problematic repairs to flood damaged buildings, including Hull, which sustained severe flooding in 2007.

Steve Hodgson, deputy executive of the PCA, formerly the British Wood Preserving and Damp-proofing Association (BWPDA), said: “We would urge people in Scotland 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 contractors with little or no understanding of the effects of water in buildings have carried out remedial work. 

“Homes have been repaired and then around six months later householders are 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.

“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.”

Recently, the PCA 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 offers includes a video, news items, details of PCA member training, and downloadable technical information and case studies relating to real flood restoration projects.

The PCA is a member of TrustMark, the scheme supported by government to help property owners find reliable and trustworthy tradespeople to make home improvements.