Could Queensland's Rapid Development Cause Further Drainage Issues?
The short answer is yes. Drainage is a major factor in determining areas ripe for new developments, and when developers start to cut costs, the drainage quality is the first cut they make because most homeowners don’t notice a lack of drainage infrastructure.
Prospective home buyers notice things like brand-name dishwashers and stylish countertops and flooring, but they aren’t likely to notice a missing downpipe here or there. However, when developers ignore natural drainage pathways, they create serious flooding risks downstream. Not to mention the pressure it places on older drainage systems that weren’t designed to handle an increased load from high-density developments, which can contribute to localised flooding.
Rapid Development Could Spell Trouble
Queensland’s drainage issues are exacerbated by water infiltration and surface runoff that accelerate erosion and rapid expansion, which can overload the system, increasing the risk of floods. New developments replace absorbent ground with artificial materials that increase the volume and velocity of water runoff, while construction sites produce an excess of debris, pollutants, and sediment that can create clogs in drains and spread into waterways.
Failure to manage stormwater runoff appropriately could lead to serious drainage issues for homeowners across Queensland and lead to flooding in residential areas. A proactive approach to home maintenance is the best way to avoid falling victim to these drainage issues.
What To Look Out For
Finding a reliable Brisbane Plumber to carry out regular inspections is the most proactive approach you can take. In the meantime, you can keep an eye out for a few different signs in the yard and coming from your roof.
Yard Signs
Your land should slope away from your home’s foundations on every side, so look out for water pooling around the foundation slab, as this can contribute to wall cracks and subsidence. If you notice sand or silt in your garden or on paths, it gives you a clear indication of the way water flows during heavier rain, and if your lawn is still boggy days after rain, this could indicate an issue. Well-drained soil should dry within 48 hours of rain. Ideally, homeowners should identify stormwater pits and regularly check to ensure they aren’t clogged.
Roof Signs
Check your downpipes and ensure they are dispersing water away from your home. You may want to enlist a professional to determine whether you have a sufficient number of downpipes and clean your gutters.
Always check ground-level pipes for broken PVC or signs of problems. If you notice a musty smell or worse, sewage, it could be indicative of serious Brisbane drainage problems and a sign that you need a plumbing professional. In new homes, look for signs of foundation shifting or rapid settlement, as this can damage pipes and cause leaks.