Keywords
Citation
(2006), "The flooding threat", Structural Survey, Vol. 24 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/ss.2006.11024bab.001
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2006, Emerald Group Publishing Limited
The flooding threat
The flooding threat
Following a recent warning by the Environment Agency (EA) that many residents in the areas of the UK susceptible to flooding are unaware of the risk, RICS has supported the idea of encouraging homeowners to minimise damage in the event of a flood. However, there are wider issues to be considered by DEFRA and the Environment Agency. Limited resources mean that proper maintenance of flood defences by the Agency are under threat. This is not helped by the fact that the agency is responsible for preserving the environment and preventing flooding as these agendas can sometimes conflict. RICS believes there should be an overarching body for water management. At present, for example, if sewers flood properties, it is not clear who is responsible. The Agency’s maps are also unsatisfactory, sometimes inaccurate and confuse practitioners and the wider public – the Agency needs to be more open about its data and willing to discuss other systems, such as those developed by leading insurers. All professionals involved in the home buying and selling process should be responsible for highlighting any flood risk potential to prospective buyers. Insurers, mortgage providers, surveyors and government agencies must continue to work together to ensure that flood risk cover is available to all homeowners, wherever commercially possible.
In the meantime changes to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) statement of principles on flood insurance published recently commit ABI members to continue to provide flood cover to existing customers in areas of significant risk where there are plans to improve flood defences within five years. This commitment previously applied until 2007. The agreement, which will come into force from the beginning of next year, will benefit home owners in areas such as Selby in North Yorkshire, Fordingbridge in Hampshire, and West Bridgeford in Nottingham.