The Property Care Association (PCA) is urging a more strategic and coordinated approach to flood risk management as new housing developments intensify across the UK, with 1.5 million new homes set to be built over the course of the current government’s term.
A significant concern is the potential placement of these homes within ever-expanding flood zones, placing both new and existing properties at risk of flood damage due to increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns.
The past 18 months have seen the highest rainfall figures on record.
During a recent cross-party Westminster Sustainable Business Forum: Bricks and Water inquiry, Andrew Devitt, Technical Manager (Waterproofing) at the PCA, said: “Multiple environmental agencies confirmed that the number of homes currently at risk of flooding has already surpassed six million. This highlights the urgent need for action, as climate change accelerates flooding risks nationwide.
“Challenges are mounting as flood risk extends into more areas. The situation is further complicated by the fragmentation of the flood sector.
“What’s needed is a national and local strategic approach involving government bodies, insurers, and key stakeholders in flood mitigation efforts. It is essential that competent flood risk assessors and surveyors become a central part of a sector coordinated response.
“The PCA advocates for the development of a comprehensive network of trained surveyors specialising in flood risk.
“This initiative is aimed at ensuring that competent professionals are available to conduct detailed property Flood Risk Assessments (FRAs), providing vital support to homeowners, planning authorities, and government bodies in identifying and mitigating flood risks.
“According to last year’s Flood Re Quinquennial Report, significant progress has been made in many available flood protection schemes, with some homes now demonstrating resilience to flooding and therefore requiring minimal remediation works after the flood event.
“However, the take-up of measures to improve property flood resilience remains limited, which leaves the vast majority of homes vulnerable to flood damage.
“Programs like ‘Build Back Better’ have not been consistently adopted by insurers, underlining the fragmented and uncoordinated approach to flood risk mitigation.
“As more homes are built in areas at increasing risk of flooding, we face the real prospect of escalating post-flood repair costs. The UK government’s reinsurance scheme is vital, but it is imperative that insurers and homeowners are supported through effective flood risk assessments.
“Without action, we risk significant financial strain on property owners and local communities, as well as further damage to infrastructure.
“The PCA wants to collaborate and actively explore ways to enhance flood resilience across the UK housing stock, including new-build developments in areas of potential flood risk.
“By increasing the availability of trained surveyors and flood risk assessors, the association aims to provide practical, sustainable solutions to the growing flood threat.
“The PCA is committed to providing our members with the training and resources needed to assess flood risks effectively. Together, we can take meaningful steps to protect homes, communities, and infrastructure from the devastating impacts of flooding.”
