Dealing with stormwater runoff from a neighbour’s property is a challenge, but understanding how to manage it effectively is crucial for protecting your own. Whether it’s heavy rainfall causing excess water to flow onto your land or the result of a poorly planned development next door, managing runoff is something every property owner should take seriously.
Stormwater runoff refers to the water that flows across the ground during and after rain, picking up pollutants along the way. When it’s not managed properly, it can lead to flooding, erosion, and damage to your property. So, what can you do when your neighbour’s stormwater runoff becomes a problem?
In this blog, we’ll explore how to manage runoff water from your neighbour’s yard and discuss various solutions to keep your property safe from water damage.
Runoff water happens when the ground can’t absorb any more rain, and the excess water starts flowing over surfaces. Impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt prevent water from being absorbed by the ground, causing it to flow off the property. Unfortunately, this water doesn’t just disappear; it has to go somewhere.
When your neighbour’s property sits at a higher elevation than yours, gravity works its magic, and water naturally flows downhill. This often leads to water runoff from their yard pooling or flowing onto your property. It’s especially problematic if your neighbour has recently made changes to their land, such as construction, landscaping, or installing new driveways, which could increase the amount of water runoff.
If you find that your neighbour’s property is responsible for excessive runoff, it’s essential to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your property. Here’s what you can do:
The first step is always to have a friendly discussion with your neighbour. Explain the issue and how their property’s runoff is affecting your land. In many cases, neighbours are unaware of the problem, and a simple conversation can lead to a cooperative solution.
If you cannot resolve the issue with your neighbour, it is time to get your local council involved. Councils have the authority to issue orders requiring property owners to address stormwater runoff issues. If the problem is linked to a recent development or construction project, the council is able to enforce regulations to ensure that the property owner takes corrective action.
In some cases, legal action is necessary if your neighbour refuses to address the runoff issue. The Conveyancing Act and other local legislation make it clear that property owners must ensure that their stormwater systems do not negatively impact neighbouring properties. You can seek mediation or even take the matter to the Land and Environment Court in New South Wales.
There are several strategies to help prevent water runoff from a neighbour’s property from damaging your own land. Below are some of the most effective solutions:
One of the best ways to manage excess water is to invest in stormwater management systems like OSD tanks (On-Site Detention tanks). OSD tanks are designed to capture and store stormwater runoff temporarily, allowing it to be gradually released into the public drainage system.
These systems are a great way to reduce the immediate impact of runoff water, particularly if you’re dealing with heavy rainfall or large volumes of water.
OSD tanks are often installed as part of new developments, but they can also be retrofitted to existing properties.
Another solution to managing runoff water is installing diversion drains or channels that redirect the flow of water away from your property. This approach involves creating a slope or trench that directs water towards a designated drainage area, such as a stormwater pit or a natural watercourse.
You can work with your neighbour to ensure that any runoff from their property is diverted into these channels instead of flowing onto your land. This cooperative approach can help avoid disputes and create a long-term solution to the problem.
Swales are shallow, vegetated channels designed to capture and slow the flow of runoff water. They allow the water to infiltrate into the ground while also filtering out pollutants. Installing a swale on your property can help manage the water that flows from your neighbour’s yard and reduce the risk of flooding.
Rain gardens, which are specially designed gardens filled with water-tolerant plants, also help absorb excess runoff water. Both swales and rain gardens are environmentally friendly options that add beauty to your property while addressing stormwater management.
Stormwater pits are another common solution for managing water runoff. These systems collect water from the surrounding area and direct it into a stormwater drain. If runoff from your neighbour’s property is causing flooding in your yard, installing a stormwater pit can help alleviate the issue by collecting and channelling the water into an appropriate drainage system.
Managing water runoff is an important responsibility for every homeowner. By understanding your rights and options, you can take action to protect your property from flooding and water damage. Whether it’s through the installation of OSD systems, diversion channels, or working with your neighbour and local council, there are many solutions available to ensure that stormwater runoff is properly managed.
If you need an OSD system installation, call Buildaroo at 0421 841 919, or you can reach us by submitting our online form, and we will help you design and implement an effective stormwater management solution.
Remember that clear communication and cooperation are key when dealing with water runoff issues. And when necessary, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice or legal assistance to resolve the matter. Protecting your property from the damaging effects of runoff water is a worthwhile investment that will keep your home safe for years to come.
