Flooding Responsibilities

Who Handles Flooding in Nottingham?

Flooding can happen for many reasons, and different people and organisations are responsible for managing it. Here’s a clear guide to help you understand who does what when it comes to flood management in Nottingham.

Nottingham City Council's Role

The council plays a big part in reducing flooding risks:

• Highway Flooding: We look after drains on public roads and footpaths. If these are blocked, call us at 0115 915 2000.
• Ordinary Watercourses: These are smaller streams or ditches. We manage them when they are on council land, but private landowners must maintain ones on their property.
• Planning and Advice: We ensure new developments don’t increase flood risks and use sustainable drainage systems (SuDS).

Environment Agency

The Environment Agency focuses on larger water sources, like rivers and reservoirs. They monitor rivers like the River Trent and provide advice and warnings during major flood events.

Visit their website to check if your home is at risk or to sign up for flood alerts.

• Flood Risk Management: Maintenance work – East Midlands Area - Environment Agency - Citizen Space
• Check the long term flood risk for an area in England - GOV.UK

Severn Trent Water

This water company looks after public sewers and water pipes. If a sewer or water main floods, contact Severn Trent Water at 

• Visit: Severn Trent Water
• Tel: 0800 783 4444

Your Responsibilities as a Landowner

“Ordinary Watercourse” Flooding

If you live near a stream, ditch, or other small watercourse, you might be a riparian owner. This means you are responsible for keeping the water flowing freely by:

• Removing debris like leaves or branches.
• Avoiding actions that block or alter the water's flow.

For guidance, check the document Living on the Edge in the council’s Flood Document Library.

• Flood Document Library - Nottingham City Council

Other Types of Flooding

1. Groundwater Flooding: This happens when water rises up from the ground. If this affects your property, it’s your responsibility to manage it.
2. Private Drains and Sewers: If these flood on your property, it’s up to you to fix them. Use a professional plumber or drainage expert.
3. Reservoir Flooding: While rare, this can happen if a reservoir fails. You can check your risk through the Environment Agency’s website.

In an Emergency

If flooding poses a serious danger to life, call 999 immediately.

Report Flooding

Stay Informed

Flood risks can change, so stay updated:

• Use flood maps and tools from the Environment Agency.
• Report problems to the right organization.
• Prepare a flood plan for your home, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.

Contact Us

Need more help? Contact the Traffic and Flood Risk Management Team​

For More information Visit Flood Document Library - Nottingham City Council