Residents whose homes were affected by rainwater flooding can now submit compensation claims online through a dedicated electronic platform launched by the Works Ministry.
The service was outlined during a briefing to the Capital Trustees Board by Works Ministry representative Sayed Hussain Alawi, who explained that the platform enables residents to submit claims by completing an electronic form and uploading supporting evidence.
“The system allows residents to submit compensation requests quickly and efficiently,” Mr Alawi said.
“Applicants must provide basic details such as the property address and upload photos or videos showing the damage so the case can be assessed accurately.”
He added that the system is linked to rainfall records to verify whether the reported damage coincides with heavy rain events.
“The link is smart and shows the actual day rainfall occurred, which helps us verify claims and process them accordingly,” he explained.
According to the ministry, claims can cover several types of flooding-related damage, including water entering homes through the main entrance or garage, sewage backflow from toilets, or drainage issues from kitchens.
“In some cases it may be one source or a combination,” Mr Alawi said.
He noted that compensation assessments may also include damage to furniture, electrical equipment, tiles, structural cracks and even vehicles affected by flooding.
However, he warned residents not to interfere with the drainage infrastructure during flooding incidents.
“People should not open drainage lids or manhole covers to try to clear water because this can disrupt the drainage system,” Mr Alawi said.
“If such interference occurs, it immediately disqualifies the applicant from receiving compensation.”
The ministry clarified that rented or inherited properties are also eligible for claims under certain conditions.
“In cases of rented homes, the application must be submitted by the tenant or the legal heirs if applicable, and all required documents must be provided,” he said.
Dr Al Qattan
During the discussion, Capital Trustees Board vice-chairwoman Dr Khulood Al Qattan raised questions about homes where rainwater enters through the main entrance because the property sits lower than the surrounding road level.
“Some residents have complained that rainwater flows into their homes because their houses are lower than the street level, even though neighbouring houses are not affected,” Dr Al Qattan said.
“This raises the question of whether such cases would qualify for compensation or be rejected because the construction level may not meet technical standards.”
Mr Alawi clarified that such cases are still eligible for compensation.
“We have dealt with similar cases previously, including in the Zinj housing area where residents were compensated,” he added.
He explained that construction problems can sometimes result from contractors not fully complying with building specifications.
“In such situations the homeowner should not bear the consequences of errors committed during the construction process,” he added.
Mr Alawi also noted that several government bodies participate in reviewing claims, including the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry and the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry.
To help residents unfamiliar with digital services, the ministry offers guidance for those needing assistance.
“Anyone who does not know how to use the system can contact us and we will assist them step by step to complete the application,” he said.
Although the compensation application process is now fully digital, Mr Alawi confirmed that an online grievance system has not yet been introduced.
“We are working on adding an electronic grievance service soon so residents can submit appeals,” he said.
He added that a new electronic follow-up mechanism will also be introduced to enable the Capital Trustees Board and Bahrain’s three municipal councils to monitor the progress of compensation requests.
However, he cautioned that it remains difficult to determine exactly when payments will be issued.
“Applications are reviewed and processed in batches, so it is difficult to set a precise timeline for compensation payments,” Mr Alawi said.
To claim, log in www.works.gov.bh – rainwater damage relief service.
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