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Report flooding

To Report flooding telephone: 0344 800 8013 

This telephone number is for residents in Norfolk to call to report any sort of flooding, whether in an emergency or not, quickly and efficiently and seek help.

Alternatively, you can report flooding via theNorfolk County Council Website (opens new window)

In an emergency

If there is any risk of danger to people or property from floodwater ring 999 immediately.

Report a flooded road

You can also report a flooded road by calling Norfolk County Council Highways on 0344 800 8020.

Flooding from burst water mains

If a water main or sewer has burst and has caused flooding, please call Anglian Water on 03457 145 145 orreport the flooding online (opens new window).

Further flooding information

As in many areas, Breckland has experienced flooding and often people know they live in a flood risk area. In some areas, where the risk of flooding is from rivers and the sea, the Environment Agency supply up to date flood warning information.

Unfortunately, other types of flooding, such as sudden flash floods caused by heavy rain, cannot be forecast.

The first responsibility for protection of property lies with the owner or occupier of that property. It is important that owners/occupiers living near a watercourse ensure they are prepared for the possibility of flooding in advance of periods of bad weather. These preparations could include some of the readily available DIY flood protection equipment, sandbags, door kits, etc. stored ready for use.

Please note it is you and not the local authority who is obliged to protect your property.

Where a riparian owner refuses to maintain a ditch and flooding occurs, it may become a civil matter between the parties involved. Riparian ownership is where your land or property is immediately adjacent to a watercourse.

Breckland Council has a limited ability to assist at times of emergency but may be able to offer some protection from the immediate threat of flooding to living accommodation only (not sheds, garages or driveways). We have a few sandbags but are restricted by resources and other demands on our work force.

Sandbags

Breckland Council has a limited supply of sand-bags which can be provided to residents in an emergency by calling 01362 656870.  These can be provided where there is an imminent danger of internal flooding to living accommodation.  We cannot help in the protection of gardens, outbuildings or garages.  If there is no immediate risk of flooding sandbags can be purchased at most DIY and builder's stores. You should not rely on us to provide sandbags when flooding occurs. Norfolk Flood and Water Management (opens new window) may be able to carry out inspections/investigations as to the cause of flooding and advise on actions which may help resolve or reduce the risk of future flooding.

Sign up for flood warnings GOV.UK

Water Course Maintenance

Much of Breckland has problems with inadequate drainage and regular maintenance will have the benefit of reducing the risk of flooding at times of wet weather.

Responsibility for the maintenance of many watercourses rests with the landowners or property owners who have watercourses passing through or adjacent to their land. In some instances other agencies have responsibility for the maintenance of watercourses.

If your property is adjacent to a watercourse of any description, as a riparian landowner you should be maintaining it regularly. Watercourses should be kept free of rubbish and other debris as well as garden refuse, such as grass cuttings. They should also be kept clear of excessive undergrowth, tree roots, etc. that grow within the watercourse.

More information aboutDrainage

Useful telephone contact numbers

Useful information and links

Last updated: 03/07/2023 19:48:01