Aviva is urging homeowners to consider the insurance implications of common garden features such as artificial grass and reduced planting, warning that these changes may increase the risk of flooding and result in insurance claims during extreme weather events.
New research commissioned by the insurer suggests that many homeowners are unaware of the flood risks associated with changes in garden design. In a survey of 2,000 UK adults, only 28% believed artificial grass could contribute to flooding and just 33% identified a lack of natural planting as a risk factor. Nearly half, or 47%, thought artificial grass had no impact on flood risk.
Aviva said the impermeable garden surfaces can reduce the ground’s ability to absorb rainfall, especially after prolonged dry periods, heightening the risk of surface water flooding. This is particularly concerning in urban areas, where limited green space and reliance on hard landscaping can place greater strain on drainage systems.
According to the insurer’s data, flood-related claims are not confined to winter months. July and August together account for 24% of annual flood claims, while December is the highest single month, representing 17% of claims.
Aviva said that while replacing gardens with driveways or low-maintenance alternatives may seem practical, such changes can increase the likelihood of flooding caused by heavy rainfall. It noted that flash flooding is often harder to predict than river or coastal flooding and can occur anywhere at any time. The company also highlighted that the UK is expected to experience one of its driest springs in over a century, which could further elevate the risk of surface water flooding from localised downpours.
The insurer pointed out that urban areas are particularly exposed due to the limited availability of green space, which reduces the ground’s capacity to absorb rain when drainage systems become overwhelmed. Even small amounts of water can cause significant damage to homes, requiring long drying periods and potentially destroying personal possessions.
Aviva also warned that artificial lawns, often chosen for their convenience, may contribute to the problem. Most are manufactured from plastic and have a finite lifespan, ultimately leading to disposal in landfill. The insurer encouraged homeowners to consider more flood-resilient options, such as using permeable materials like gravel, adding drainage, or incorporating planting that allows water to soak into the soil.
The survey findings also indicated public support for natural flood management approaches. Aviva reported that 82% of respondents believed restoring natural landscapes helps mitigate flood risk, while 75% agreed that nature-based solutions could play a role in flood reduction. Three-quarters of those surveyed supported increased investment in these types of measures.
In connection with the findings, Aviva issued a set of recommendations for improving the resilience of outdoor spaces. These included using appropriate plants, keeping trees and shrubs at a suitable distance from buildings, selecting permeable materials for paving, and creating planting borders to improve water infiltration. The insurer also suggested collecting rainwater and rewilding parts of gardens to support natural drainage.
