Intro to ‘30 facts and statistics about flooding and the UK property market’

Flooding is a rising issue in the UK, with 1 in 6 buildings at risk of water damage. An increased population, climate change and old, inadequate plumbing are all to blame, with damage costing homeowners an average of £1bn annually. As an island nation, we’re particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and flooding from rivers, but groundwater flooding is also on the up, meaning that even people based in cities aren’t safe from this issue.

Whilst measures to prevent flood damage such as water-resistant plaster, non-return valves and physical barriers are helping mitigate the impact, there’s no denying that flooding still has the potential to be catastrophic. As well as damage to their home, one area where owners may see a negative effect is the saleability of their property. This stat-based guide from Avrillo dives into the details of why a flood risk might make a home harder to sell, as well as decreasing its value. But many people don’t have a choice – with the cost of housing already at record levels, homes in notorious flooding areas may offer a chance to get on the property ladder.

With most of us now aware of the seriousness of the climate crisis, it’s no surprise that flooding continues to be an area of concern. If you’re thinking about buying a home, read this guide to make sure you know what you’re taking on before you proceed.