Flooding, drainage and riparian owners

Ri-par-ian.
Adj relating to or situated on the banks of a river:

We have a deep expertise in flooding and drainage.

Flooding from rivers, the sea or intense rainfall is costly, disruptive and often devastating. When it results from activities on neighbouring land, there may be grounds for a damages claim.

Byelaws and regulations govern works near watercourses and the coast. Riparian owners also hold specific rights and responsibilities where watercourses cross their land. There is a fine line between taking steps to protect your own land, and causing flooding on the land of others.

We advise on abstraction licences, watercourse permits and reservoir requirements. We assist developers with s104 agreements. We often advise on the General Binding Rules for private sewage treatment.

We support local authorities and internal drainage boards with their water and drainage responsibilities — and we also help property owners navigate these issues too.