A NATIONAL trade body is advising property owners in Dorset on steps that can be taken to minimise flood damage to homes and businesses.

The Property Care Association (PCA) is directing householders to its free online flood protection guide, to give an insight into some of the steps that can be taken to keep their homes safe.

Available from the Property Care Association website, the free download offers information and advice on mitigating the flood risk to homes or business and how to find expert advice on protection and resilience measures.

James Berry, Technical manager at the PCA, said: “When it comes to flood protection there is no ‘one size fits all’ answer. It’s not just a case of buying products off the shelf.

“But there are steps people can take to protect their homes and businesses – and expert advice and support is available via the PCA for anyone who needs advice on the best ways to protect their property from floodwater.”

Some tips include installing doorway flood protection to prevent water ingress, using one-use adhesive cover strips for low-risk areas and fitting no return valves within sewage plumbing.

The PCA has a dedicated Flood Protection Group, and is a member of the Environment Agency round table on flooding, It was also a contributor to the new code of practice for flood resilience published by CIRIA.

To find out more about the PCA and flood protecting tips, visit: www.property-care.org.