Research flood risks thoroughly when buying property

The National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) is offering advice to those considering buying property in a flood risk area, following the issue of over 40 flood warnings across the country by the Environment Agency last week.

Currently, around 10% of the UK population lives in a flood risk area. Peter Bolton King, Chief Executive at the NAEA, comments: “Being in a flood risk area does not necessarily mean your home will be flooded. There are many contributing factors that all need to occur at the same time, and sometimes this might happen only once every 50 years or so.

“You can check an area’s flood risk through the Environment Agency, which has created a map to give an overall assessment of the risks to homes from swollen rivers and coastal areas prone to flooding. The data has given developers, home buyers and insurers a better understanding of the risks attached to specific properties and flood prone areas. The flood map takes into account whether houses are low, moderate or high risk. Commonly, flood insurance cover is provided as normal for the first two categories. However, if you reside in a ‘significant’ risk area you may have to negotiate special terms with an insurance company to access cover.

“If you are thinking of buying a home in a flood risk area, speak to the existing owners about the flood history and carry out a thorough survey. It is also advisable to ask the seller who provides their home insurance – it saves time to have prior knowledge of a lender willing to insure you in your new location.

“It’s a good idea to research personal flood water defence systems for your home. These can be bought and fitted quite easily and add a level of protection which insurers may take into account when calculating your home’s risk. The cost of installing such measures is far less than the cost of repairing flood damage.

“Although the aftermath of a flood can be devastating, with careful preparation, you can minimise the loss and stress you will experience.”