Tan Hoa is called the “flood land”. It is surrounded by rocky mountains and divided by the Nan River. In the rainy season, from September to November, water usually rushes down from the riverhead very quickly and withdraws after five to seven days. If they do not prepare well, their lives and property are threatened.

In 2010, the historical floods with water level of 12-15 meters high submerged hundreds of homes, washed away a lot of property, increasing the number of poor households in Tan Hoa by over 80%. After that, local people took the initiative of making floating houses for the flood season.

Floating houses are usually 15-20 m2 in area, made with wooden frames and covered by iron or timber. The house can float thanks to the plastic or iron drums under the water.

The house is tied to two pillars of 6-8 meters high, so it is not swept away by water. "Flood water in Tan Hoa rises to high levels, but withdraws slowly and the water does not run fast, so it is safe to use," said a local man named Tran Huu Hung.

Hung and his son have worked very hard for several days to complete their floating house.

The house is designed for eight people and can contain motorcycles, a refrigerator and food. Last year, Hung’s family avoided floods on a raft made from wood bars. However, without a roof, the family and their assets were all wet.

Mr. Truong Van Thinh said: "When the flood comes, my family still lives normally in the floating house”. His house is around 17 m2, enough for six people, their vehicles and agricultural products.

Mr. Dinh Tien Hung and his two sons are also busy making the floating house. Hung said local people make the houses themselves. “It is not difficult to make the house. The most important is making a good wooden frame," he said.

Hung said the VND30 million ($1,500) house that he and his son are making is safe, effective and convenient. "If it is well maintained, its lifespan may be up to 20 years. Every year we just need to replace rusted screws and drums," Hung said.

Mr. Cao Quy Ninh, Vice Chair of Tan Hoa commune, said the commune has 170 floating houses. "Since floating houses were put into operation in 2010, there has been no accident in our commune," said Ninh.

Ninh said locals need the state’s assistance to make floating houses because poor farmers make up 98 percent of the population.