Preparing for flooding
With 106,000 homes at risk of flooding across Hull and the East Riding, knowing what to do – before, during and after a flood – is one of the most important things you can do for yourself, your home and the people around you. Yet only 16% of people in Hull feel prepared.
Good flood advice starts with understanding your risk and taking a few simple steps that could make a real difference when it matters most.
Our flood advice covers everything from creating a personal flood plan to making arrangements for pets, supporting your community and reducing the risk of flooding to your business. A few hours of planning now can save days of stress and disruption later.
Home flood defence
There is a lot you can do to reduce the impact of flooding on your home or business – and much of it is simpler and more affordable than you might think. From fitting flood barriers and non-return valves to installing water butts and checking your insurance, small changes can significantly reduce the damage floodwater causes.
Build your flood plan
When a flood arrives, staying calm and knowing what to do can help keep you and your family safe. Our flood safety guidance covers how to respond to a flood warning, what to do if water is rising around your home, how to manage utilities safely and what to include in your emergency grab bag.
Useful links
Flooding often requires support from more than one place. Our useful links page brings together trusted sources of guidance and support – from the Environment Agency and the National Flood Forum to local councils and recovery organisations – so you can find the help you need quickly.
Frequently asked questions
The best first step is to check whether your home or business is in a flood-risk area. From there, sign up for free flood warnings and spend a few minutes making a simple flood plan. Our flood advice pages walk you through each step in plain, practical terms.
No. In Hull and the East Riding, flooding can come from rivers, tidal surges, surface water, sewers and groundwater. Surface water flooding – caused when heavy rain overwhelms drainage systems – can affect any property, regardless of its proximity to a river or the coast.
Costs vary depending on the measures involved. Some steps – like signing up for flood warnings, making a flood plan and moving valuables upstairs – are completely free. Others, such as installing flood barriers or non-return valves, involve a cost but can significantly reduce the financial impact of flooding. Our property protection pages include guidance on what is available and where to get help with costs.
Act on it immediately. Move valuables and electricals to upper floors, turn off gas and electricity if flooding is likely, secure outdoor items and check on vulnerable neighbours. Do not walk or drive through floodwater – just 30cm of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. See our flood safety page for full guidance.
Yes. A range of organisations offer practical and emotional support after a flood event, including the National Flood Forum, local councils and community recovery services. Our useful links page brings together the most relevant sources of help for residents and businesses in Hull and the East Riding.
Yes. Our flood advice for businesses covers flood planning, protecting stock and equipment, staff communication and maintaining operations during and after a flood. You will find dedicated business guidance in our Preparing for Flooding section.
