KIRKLEES businesses could face serious disruption and may lose customers if they don’t take steps to prevent flooding of their properties this summer, claims the UK’s largest emergency plumbing and drainage company.
After last month’s deluge, Drain Doctor Plumbing is urging businesses in the district to make sure their drains are free of blockages from such things as fallen leaves to reduce the potential risk of flooding when the next heavy rains fall..
Drain Doctor Plumbing chairman Freddie Mitman said: “Many people think flooding is something that won’t happen to them, but the risk is there. Being unprepared simply means the chance of an incident increases.
“Although insurance policies can cover damage to property, damage to businesses in terms of lost working hours and even lost clients is often not covered.
“This is why it is vitally important for businesses to take the time now to make sure their drains are clear of any blockages and are in good working order.”
Said Mr Mitman: “According to the Environment Agency, over 5m people in England and Wales live in properties that are risk of flooding from rivers or the sea.
“Add to this the risk of surface water, sewer and groundwater flooding and the potential for disruption becomes massive in periods of severe wet weather such as we are experiencing at the moment.
“The Association of British Insurers predicts that coastal floods and storm damage will increase significantly over the next 50 years. Inland, more frequent heavy rainstorms and increased seasonal rainfall could result in more flooding from rivers.
“This spells trouble for businesses across the country which aren’t adequately prepared for the damage flooding can do.”
