Flooding
Section 19 flood investigations
We have a duty as the Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 (FWMA 2010) to investigate significant flood incidents, and produce reports known as Section 19 reports.
Section 19 of the Act requires LLFAs to investigate flood incidents where necessary, based on each LLFA’s published flood investigation criteria set out within their Local Flood Risk Management Strategy in order to establish responsible parties as well as their actions as a result of the flooding event.
Section 19 investigations are complex and usually take between about 1 year to complete and a report is usually produced at the completion of each investigation. The investigation is not an in-depth analysis of the flood risk or mechanisms of flooding. Hydraulic modelling of the risks and reduction or alleviation options are not part of the investigation. Flood investigations additionally do not give the LLFA powers to require or demand any parties undertake any work.
All stakeholders including relevant flood Risk Management Authorities (RMAs) are notified of the investigation conclusions and recommendations.
Completed Section 19 reports
- Section 19 Flood Investigation Report (Flood Incident: Autumn 2023)