Flood facts and figures
The number of people at risk of flooding in the UK is projected to increase by 61% by 2050
According to a UK Health Security Agency 2023 report, the frequency and magnitude of flooding events is projected to increase in the UK. Approximately 6.1 million people in the UK currently live in flood prone areas, and the number of people significantly at risk of flooding is projected to increase by 61% by 2050 under a modest warming scenario (2°C) and by 118% in a high warming scenario (4°C). Currently, 2.8 million people are particularly vulnerable to surface water flooding and one in six homes is located in a high-risk area.
At Total Landlord we have seen significant annual fluctuations over the last five years in the volume of flood claims and the amount paid out. As you would expect, these have varied depending on the nature of severe weather events. The average payout has climbed from £13,739 during the period 2017-2021, to £38,030 during the period 2019-2023. And this figure could easily increase without warning, as it did in 2021 when a claim resulting from Storm Desmond amounted to £143,755. The storm flooded an entire street, forcing tenant evacuations, and extensive repairs had to be made, including the removal and replacement of flooring, ceilings, walls, and fittings. Over the five years to 2023, the total amount paid out for flooding has ranged from a low in 2023 of £48,592 to a high of £1,282,794 in 2021.
“Climate projections indicate that on average, winters will continue to become wetter and summers drier, though natural variability will mean we will continue to see individual years that don’t follow this trend. However, rain that does fall in summer will likely be more intense than what we currently experience. For example, rainfall from an event that typically occurs once every 2 years in summer is expected to increase by around 25%. This will impact on the frequency and severity of surface water flooding, particularly in urban areas.”
Met OfficeAs climate conditions become more unpredictable, it's crucial for landlords to be proactive in protecting their properties.
