Methods of drying flooded domestic properties: the perceptions of UK building surveyors

The prediction of more frequent flooding events in the UK necessitates the development of reinstatement standards for flood-damaged domestic properties. This is because current reinstatement methods exhibit significant variance which ultimately influence cost and time needed for repair works as well as their overall performance. Prior to the commencement of repair works, it is important that appropriate drying methods be used so that subsequent repair works are not damaged by latent defects such as fungal attack. This paper presents the perceptions of 289 building surveyors regarding methods used to dry flooded domestic properties. Findings suggest that surveyors consider various methods to assist drying rather than focusing on a single dominant method. Furthermore, the drying method is not a scientific process but rather one based on experience and subjectivity. These facts highlight the lack of definitive guidance on drying out flooded buildings. Further research is recommended towards developing standardised drying out procedures and techniques.