Flood resilience is not just an engineering issue but a socioeconomic one, according to a new study by Flood Re and JBA Risk Management.
The analysis found that terraced houses, bungalows, and ground-floor flats - often located in lower-income areas - stand to gain the most from simple flood protection measures that could save the UK up to £740 million ($984 million) annually.
The independent research, conducted by JBA in collaboration with Flood Re, identified that 21.8 million homes, or nearly three-quarters of the UK’s housing stock, are structurally suitable for Property Flood Resilience (PFR) measures. Of these, about 3.1 million homes face flood depths of up to 60 centimeters, the range in which PFR interventions are most effective.
According to the report, national adoption of PFR could cut flood-related losses by up to £740 million each year, while targeting properties that experience frequent flooding could still yield savings of around £238 million annually. For more than 50,000 households, the installation cost of resilience measures is lower than the average annual loss from flooding.
Entry-level improvements such as airbrick covers and pumps typically cost between £1,500 and £3,000. These costs are significantly lower than average residential flood claims, which can exceed £67,000, according to 2023 figures from Aviva. In Hull alone, applying PFR solutions could save nearly £20 million in annual losses, offering an example of community-scale impact.
Flood Re said that while more than four million homes benefit from formal flood defenses, many properties remain at risk, particularly from surface water flooding, where 83% of homes are still exposed. The study notes that PFR measures do not replace large-scale flood defenses but can limit damage and speed up recovery when flooding occurs. Common measures include flood doors, non-return valves, raised electrics, waterproof finishes, and removable kitchens.
Flood Re’s corporate affairs director Kelly Ostler-Coyle said the evidence demonstrates how practical measures can improve resilience and affordability for households.
JBA Risk Management managing director David Wood added that the findings quantify the benefits of even modest interventions for both property owners and the wider economy.
The report’s release coincides with Flood Action Week 2025, featuring the Floodmobile, a demonstration home showcasing PFR measures in the UK. The exhibit will appear in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Salford, and Lancaster, supported by sponsors including Admiral, Ageas, Allianz, Aviva, Hiscox, IPFRA, Pen Underwriting, Prestige, and the Association of British Insurers.
Flood Re said it stands ready to work with policymakers, insurers, and communities to expand affordable and accessible flood resilience options.
Could property-level flood protection become a standard part of insurance and lending practices? Share your thoughts in the comments.
