International Property Flood Resilience Association launches to professionalise and unify growing sector
The recent establishment of the International Property Flood Resilience Association (IPFRA) marks a significant milestone for the property flood resilience (PFR) sector, an industry that has seen rapid growth in response to increasing flood risks and climate change challenges. As this sector becomes crucial for mainstream construction and environmental resilience strategies, the formation of IPFRA aims to provide a much-needed voice for professionals and companies involved in flood resilience initiatives.
Historically, the PFR industry lacked a central organisation to advocate for its members—contractors, surveyors, installers, and other specialists. IPFRA's mission is to address this gap by encouraging best practices that align with the CIRIA Code of Practice for Property Flood Resilience. This code sets forth guidelines that are essential for ensuring the effectiveness and quality of flood resilience measures, thereby enhancing public confidence in the products and services offered by its members.
Graham Brogden MBE, Chair of IPFRA and Managing Director of GJB Consultancy, underscores the urgent need for a concerted effort in the PFR sector, stating, “PFR is no longer a niche add-on, it’s becoming a critical part of our national response to climate change and flood risk." His remarks highlight the evolution of PFR from a peripheral concern to a core element of sustainable development and disaster preparedness.
The association is also a hub for knowledge-sharing and training, inviting participation from a range of professionals, including those in civil engineering, town planning, and construction. This inclusive approach reflects a broader trend within the industry, where cross-disciplinary collaboration is becoming increasingly vital to developing effective flood resilience strategies.
IPFRA will formally introduce itself during an evening reception at the Flood & Coast Conference, coinciding with the PFR sector's growing visibility at such events. Founding members include influential figures from companies like Watertight International, JBA Consulting, and M3 Floodtec. Their collective experience will be instrumental in shaping the association's future direction and ensuring adherence to its Code of Conduct, which sets minimum standards for professionalism and service quality.
Complementing IPFRA’s efforts, the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) is enhancing professional capabilities through specialised training and certification in PFR. Their training modules cover essential aspects such as hazard assessment and property surveys, equipping individuals with the necessary competencies to implement PFR measures effectively. This initiative reflects a growing demand for knowledgeable professionals capable of addressing the complexities of flood risk management in a way that is both effective and compliant with established standards.
CIWEM’s foundation training introduces participants to the overall context of PFR within flood risk management, explaining the importance of resistance and recoverability as central concepts in PFR implementation. It adeptly addresses potential limitations and challenges that practitioners may encounter, ensuring that they are not only versed in theory but are also prepared to navigate real-world applications.
As the demand for PFR solutions escalates, both IPFRA and CIWEM are positioned at the forefront of industry advocacy and professional education. Together, they are fostering a culture of continuous improvement and resilience, which is vital for safeguarding communities against the escalating threats posed by climate change.
With IPFRA now actively welcoming expressions of interest from organisations looking to engage in this critical sector, the momentum behind property flood resilience is set to increase significantly. The establishment of this association marks an important step toward professionalising an industry that is crucial to the future of sustainable construction and environmental stewardship.
In this evolving landscape, it is clear that collaboration, adherence to established codes, and ongoing professional development will be key drivers in enhancing the overall effectiveness of the property flood resilience sector.