Most people will be familiar with surface water flooding, however, less people are aware of groundwater flooding, a type of flooding that can have huge negative effects.

My client, London Waterproofing Solutions, shares the below information about groundwater flooding and states which London areas are most at risk.

What is groundwater flooding?

“Groundwater flooding occurs when levels of water in rock and soil or underground rise. Known as the water table, these levels can rise steadily over an extended period, sometimes taking months to appear. As the water table rises, it can reach ground level and come through to the surface. This is when groundwater flooding can occur.

Perched water tables are increasingly common. This is where there is a temporary rise in the groundwater level as a result of rainfall, a damaged drain or mains water burst.

Groundwater tends to be noticed when it appears in low-level rooms, such as cellars or basements, as it comes through the floors from the ground and into your home. Traditional flooding prevention does not work as effectively against groundwater flooding, as the water comes through the ground and into your home, rather than over the surface.”

Which London areas are at risk of groundwater flooding?

“The City of London is a high-risk area for groundwater flooding in both new and existing properties. This is because the ground is made up of London clay in many areas, preventing free drainage of water below the ground and creating perched water tables.

Groundwater is known for causing problems in London, particularly in Fulham, Hammersmith, Southwark or Wandsworth as well as many parts of East London. Essentially, any London property with a basement or cellar area is at risk.”

“This does not mean that other areas of London or the rest of the UK are not at risk.”