Urban areas host 80% of England’s homes at high risk of flooding, study finds
Summary
A study found that 80% of homes at high risk of flooding in England are now in towns and cities, with social housing tenants being more vulnerable to flood damage and financial loss. The risk of flooding is increasing because of heavy rain, old drainage systems, and fast city growth, and this problem is expected to get worse in the future.Key Facts
- 839,000 homes in urban areas of England are at high risk of surface water flooding.
- The risk of flooding has tripled since 2018.
- High-risk areas include Thurrock, Basildon, Bootle, Sefton, Southport, and parts of London like Hackney and Barking.
- Social housing tenants often live in the highest flood risk areas and are less likely to have insurance to cover damages.
- Surface water flooding happens when rainwater can’t drain away properly or soak into the ground.
- The Environment Agency defines high flood risk as a one in 30 chance of flooding every year.
- Flooding is expected to triple in the next 50 years due to climate change and urban growth.
- Many flood victims, especially in social housing, face repeated flooding and unclear responsibility for fixing problems.
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