By Legal Futures Associate SearchFlow [1]
It is said that when a home is flooded, the household will be displaced, on average, for between six and nine months while it dries out and essential repairs are made. The average insurance bill for properties damaged as a result of storms Dennis and Ciara in 2020 was £32,000 per property. [2]
Flooding is becoming an increasing issue, with around half of all floods resulting from surface water flooding, which occurs when intense rainfall overwhelms drainage systems. You only need to look at the flooding that happened in central London [3] in the summer to see a recent example.
As our climate continues to change, the risk of flooding is increasing. Today, the Environment Agency states that more than three million homes in England are at risk of surface water flooding [4] alone. Being ‘flood aware’ is increasingly important and clients should seek advice from their conveyancer when buying a new property. With a large variety of flood reports and searches available, how do you know which is the best for you and your clients’ needs?
Insightful snapshots of flood data for better client care
For peace of mind, there are some flood insights reports where any risks are automatically assessed by qualified environmental consultant. Landmark Information [5]’s series of reports offer an insightful round-up of property, environmental and land-based intelligence, helping to better inform those working across the property industry gain a clearer view of the future concerns.
In particular, the Landmark Flood report provides insightful, easy to read snapshots of rich flood data to explain the true impact on communities across the country, such as those in local authority areas that have the highest volume of properties located in Flood Zones 2 and 3.
This report includes expert flood assessment on high-risk sites and clear advice on next steps to be taken. Not only is it Law Society compliant, but is available within 24 hours of ordering and includes extensive PI cover protection of up to £10 million. In addition, we supply an insurability statement confirming if insurance is likely to be available and affordable for the property, along with an indication on whether the property is eligible for the Government approved Flood Re scheme.
With an ever-changing flood risk picture, knowing an expert environmental consultant has provided feedback – and valuable next steps – on locations deemed high-risk, gives added confidence that the information can be truly relied upon before any deal is signed and sealed.
To discuss SearchFlow’s range of flooding and drainage searches and reports, call 0800 977 8818 or email sales@searchflow.co.uk [6].