How to prevent and deal with flooding in the UK

Flooding has become an increasing concern in the UK because of extreme weather, urbanisation, inadequate infrastructure, land-use and environmental changes and rising sea levels. The UK's Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA3) calls flooding 'one of the most severe climate hazards'.

The cost is substantial: flooding in 2015/16 was estimated to cost the UK economy £1.6bn, and annual damage and management is now estimated to cost around £2.2bn.

Beyond immediate damage, flooding also causes social and environmental harm. It can destroy wildlife habitats, contaminate land and water supplies and displace people, with severe long-term impacts on mental health and well-being.

It outlines the myriad types and sources of flooding as well as covering prevention, protection, mitigation and alleviation, including land and environmental management.

Furthermore, it identifies various approaches to reduce or mitigate risks, including hard engineering defences such as dams and reservoirs, nature-based solutions and sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS). The document also discusses property flood resilience (PFR) as well as regulatory measures and planning.

The practice information likewise deals with the implications for residential, commercial and rural property appraisal, management and valuation. In addition, there is coverage of insurance, including the mechanics of the Flood Re scheme, and of other implications for occupiers. RICS encourages all its members to familiarise themselves with this guidance.

Meanwhile, RICS has also published a consumer guide on flooding, to support occupants and owners in dealing with the issue.