Flood risk is no longer just a winter concern. According to insurer Aviva, over a third of home insurance flood claims are made between June and August. If you’re a landlord, it is essential to understand that summer flash floods are becoming more common, and that your rental property may be vulnerable.
Changing weather patterns mean it’s time to take a fresh look at your property’s resilience. As a landlord, being proactive about flood risk during the warmer months could help you avoid serious damage, disruption for tenants, and costly repairs.
Jason Storah, CEO of UK and Ireland General Insurance at Aviva, says:
“Traditionally, we think of floods happening in the autumn and winter, when rainfall occurs over a period of time and rivers reach capacity. However, analysis shows that floods can and do occur at any time, and summer flash floods are becoming more commonplace. This pattern suggests that residents and businesses should be prepared year-round and put in place a flood action plan.”
Here is our practical advice for landlords to help reduce the risk of flooding and ensure tenants and properties are well protected.
1. Check the Flood Risk Level of Your Property
To begin, assess your rental property’s flood risk using the official Government tool: Check long-term flood risk.
Even apartments can be affected. Lower-ground flats and communal areas like basements and underground car parks are especially vulnerable. Access routes could also be blocked by flood water, even if the main residence is not directly damaged.
2. Make Your Rental More Flood Resilient
If you’re refurbishing a buy-to-let property in a known flood-prone area, incorporate features that can reduce damage. For example:
- Use tiled or solid flooring instead of timber or carpet, which are harder to clean and dry after a flood.
- Fit electrical wiring, sockets and heating units higher up the walls, above anticipated flood levels.
- Install flood barriers on external doors and consider anti-flood air bricks to minimise water entry.
These small improvements can make a big difference and help limit long-term costs.
3. Register for Local Flood Warnings
Many flood-prone areas are covered by Environment Agency alerts. You can sign up for flood warnings to receive free texts or emails when there is an increased risk.
This gives both landlords and tenants time to act. Having early notice is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce the impact of flooding.
4. Inform and Prepare Your Tenants
If your property is in an area with known flood risk, you should make this clear to any new tenant before they sign the agreement. Many people still choose to rent homes near rivers, lakes or the coast, but they deserve to know what precautions are in place.
Give tenants information about the flood warning service, emergency council contacts, and your own or your letting agent’s emergency number. Preparing tenants in this way is not only responsible, but also helps reduce panic and confusion if flooding does occur.
5. Review Your Landlord Insurance Policy
Make sure your landlord insurance includes full protection for flooding, with a realistic excess and cover for the following:
- Alternative accommodation for tenants during repairs
- Loss of rent during any period the property cannot be occupied
- Structural and contents damage from flood water
Reviewing your policy regularly ensures that it meets the needs of your property, especially if your risk level changes.
The Government recently pledged £7.9 billion to new flood defence projects over the next ten years. This is reassuring, but in the meantime, landlords need to take control of their own flood prevention and planning.
If you’re unsure about how to assess or manage flood risk, or you’d like tailored advice about protecting your rental property, get in touch with our team. We’re here to help you stay prepared and protect your investment.
Important Links
Book a Lettings Valuation
Visit our Royston Facebook Page
Visit our Newmarket Facebook Page
View our Ware Facebook Page
