Figures published today in a new report by the UK insurance company Aviva say that one in nine new homes are at risk of flooding.

The report suggests that almost a third (30%) of new homes built in 2024 will be at some risk of flooding by 2050. It also highlights an accelerating trend of building on areas more at risk of flooding.

The National Flood Forum is deeply concerned about the findings in the report and is calling on government to make informed decisions about where new homes are built.

National Flood Forum CEO, Tracey Garrett, said: “Build Baby Build is fine in principle but planning decisions taken today must support communities, not store up misery for people in the years to come.

“Buying a home is a time of celebration and excitement, and flooding is usually the last thing people are thinking about when they move in. But the financial and mental impact of flooding can be huge and we must focus on building new homes responsibly.”

Aviva release: https://www.aviva.com/newsroom/news-releases/2026/02/proportion-of-new-homes-built-in-flood-areas-rises-to-one-in-nine/ 

Tracey is quoted in the Times article (paywall): https://www.thetimes.com/uk/environment/article/one-in-nine-new-homes-built-in-flood-prone-areas-warns-insurer-t6dz35dtx

Media enquiries

We always welcome enquiries from journalists. We can provide quotes, comments and case studies on issues linked to flooding in the UK.

Media contact: Ben Hennessy
Call: 07549 870 916
Email: [email protected]