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In the intricate landscape of communal housing development, effective infrastructure management serves as the bedrock of resilience.
Stormwater planning, in particular, emerges as a pivotal element, in safeguarding the longevity and vitality of residential estates. ‘As custodians of community living, it’s imperative for estate managers to proactively address stormwater challenges,’ affirms Louise Martin, CEO of Estate Living. ‘By implementing robust preventive measures and ensuring comprehensive insurance coverage, we empower communities to weather any storm.’
Jason Mansfield, owner of Mansfield Property Solutions, underscores the importance of pre-emptive action in slowing down stormwater risks. ‘Water attenuation ponds have long been a mainstay among estate managers, mitigating runoff water between roofs and paved areas,’ he notes. Yet, the arsenal of preventive measures extends beyond convention.
Immediate preventive steps
Mansfield advocates for anticipatory actions in the face of overwhelmed stormwater infrastructure. For sloped landscapes, anchoring paved roads with concrete beams every 10 to 15 metres safeguards against erosion. Alternatively, drainage grids and deeper drainage ports help to expedite water outflow from rooftops, especially on steep terrains. In low-lying areas, enhancing building drainage becomes paramount. ‘Abnormally high rains necessitate subsoil drainage installations to redirect water away from structures to drains,’ Mansfield adds. Additionally, for expansive green spaces, installing perforated pipes buried below the surface aids in water absorption, offering a cost-effective solution.
Insurance policy insights
A key importance is understanding insurance coverage comprehensively. While most policies cover weatherrelated incidents, exclusions may exist, requiring diligent scrutiny. Ensure adequate coverage for potential scenarios, including debris removal, rebuilding costs, and loss of income due to property closure, for example. From a business perspective it’s important to emphasise the necessity of business insurance extensions for potential income loss. This ensures coverage for damaged units, whether tenanted or owner-occupied, offering financial support during reinstatement or repair periods.
Know your responsibilities
Clarifying responsibilities between homeowners and estate management is paramount. While homeowners oversee tasks like roof maintenance and gutter cleaning, estate management shoulders communal upkeep, including tree trimming and debris removal. During adverse weather, additional protective measures, such as sandbags and electricity supply management, fall within the purview of estate management.
As we navigate the complexities of stormwater management and insurance, collaboration between homeowners, estate managers, and insurers becomes indispensable. By adopting proactive measures and comprehensive insurance coverage, community schemes can fortify their resilience against inclement weather, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.
