In part one we explored why Scotland’s tenements are vulnerable to water ingress. In this chapter we focus on solutions: sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and practical routines that keep existing assets working.
SuDS are not just modern gadgets. They are a design philosophy that mimics natural water movement so rainwater can be stored, slowed, filtered, and released safely.
For historic blocks, that might mean blending heritage cast-iron with discreet modern interventions, or simply doubling down on cleaning and inspection cycles.
What SuDS aim to do
The SuDS Working Group defined these systems as “a sequence of management practices and control structures designed to drain surface water in a more sustainable fashion.” NatureScot adds that SuDS must consider flow rate, quality, biodiversity, and amenity.
- Use gravity where possible, avoiding energy-hungry pumps
- Design for maintainability before aesthetics
- Slow the journey from roof to sewer via attenuation tanks, permeable surfaces, and rain gardens
The goal is resilience—less pressure on downpipes, fewer sudden floods, and easier compliance with climate-adapted planning rules.
Practical SuDS retrofits
- Permeable courtyard surfacing
- Rain gardens or planters at discharge points
- Attenuation tanks feeding slow-release drains
- Integrating smart sensors to flag blockages
Know your permissions
Historic streetscapes complicate drainage upgrades. Replacing visible cast iron might require listed building consent, planning approval, and building warrants. Early conversations with your local authority, Scottish Water, and neighbours save time.
In many cases the fastest path is to preserve existing gutters through targeted repairs. That still requires evidence of regular maintenance and prompt reporting.
Typical approvals checklist
- Building warrant — Building (Scotland) regs
- Planning permission — Local authority householder rules
- Listed building consent — Historic Environment Scotland
Document every submission so future owners understand what’s approved.
Drainage maintenance schedule
Share this grid with your factor or owners’ association to agree frequency and scope.
Talk to your factor about inspection cadence, make sure quotes cover roof edges, ground discharge, and cast-iron protection, and keep every owner informed.
Next in the seriesPart 3: case studies
We’ll share two contrasting examples showing the consequences of neglected drainage versus proactive SuDS planning, plus funding routes for remedial work.
“All of us are in the gutter, but some of us are looking at long-term drainage maintenance contracts.”
— Oscar Wilde (lightly paraphrased)
Images: Adrien Olichon & Oleksii Piekhov on Unsplash.
Need a SuDS and drainage action plan?
We coordinate surveys, schedule maintenance, and help owners agree funding so your gutters don’t become a crisis.
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