How prepared are you for a flood?

With Flood Action Week 2025 underway, there’s no better time to strengthen your flood resilience at home, at work, and within your community.

As the UK faces an increase in severe weather events, preparation has never been more vital, and the message from both government and insurers is clear – acting early is the best protection. In this blog we explore the rising risk of flood in the UK, our expert advice for what to do before, and after a flood, and what you can do to prepare for the future.

A rising risk across the UK

Last year marked a record-breaking period for flood and storm-related insurance claims. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), insurers paid out an unprecedented £585 million for weather-related losses to UK homes and possessions, the highest total since records began in 2017.

The 2023–24 storm season brought 12 named storms, with several counties across the country experiencing their wettest September on record. In Marlow for instance, an area vulnerable to flooding, the Marlow Flood Alleviation Scheme identifies 245 properties as being at very significant risk of river flooding, with a further 42 properties at significant risk.  During the winter of 2013/14, the Thames Valley area also endured severe flooding, with the area being particularly susceptible due to the River Thames and its wide floodplain landscape.

While the UK Government has pledged £2.65 billion for flood defences, the ABI continues to stress that household and business-level resilience remains the most effective form of protection.

5 things you should to do when a flood warning is issued

1. Put safety first – move your family, pets and valuables to an upstairs room or other higher safe area.
2. Turn off utilities (if safe to do so) – Switch off gas, electricity, and water supplies to reduce the risk of fire or electrocution. Only do this if it’s safe to access these controls.
3. Use your flood protection equipment – Fit any flood barriers, door guards, or airbrick covers you have in place. These small actions can make a big difference in reducing damage.
4. Stay alert and follow instructions – If the warning escalates to a severe flood warning, stay in a secure location with a clear escape route. Be ready to evacuate quickly if advised, and always follow the directions of emergency services.
5. Have your ’emergency flood kit’ ready – It should include your  insurance documents, identification, mobile phones and chargers, emergency cash & credit cards, prescription medicine, reliable torch & spare batteries, warm clothing and blankets, first aid kit and some bottled water ready.
   

5 things you should do after a flood 

1. Protective clothing – before attempting any clean-up ensure that you have adequate protective clothing. Flood water contains hazardous pollutants so use goggles and a face mask in addition to boots and gloves.
2. Document any damage – once it’s safe, take photos and videos of all affected areas. Keep a detailed list of damaged possessions and repairs.
3. Notify your insurer or broker – as soon as possible to start the claims process, and only use licensed and insured contractors for cleaning and repair work to ensure safety and compliance.
4. Prevent further damage – Insurers will typically expect policyholders to take reasonable steps to prevent further property damage. Remove standing water, use dehumidifiers or fans to help dry your property, and dispose of items that could harbour mould  — such as soaked carpets, furniture, or insulation.
5. Report the flood – call the Environment Agency’s Incident Hotline on 0800 80 70 60. Reporting helps improve flood forecasting and warning accuracy for your area and future events.

“During severe weather events, insurers typically expect policyholders to take reasonable steps to prevent property damage or additional damage, known as mitigation. It’s important to understand the devastation that flooding can cause. This can include damage to the building but also to precious contents you have too. Sentimental value is not taken into consideration, so it’s important to make sure items are stored safely or elsewhere. Sanitation and clean up efforts can take time, meaning even when the water subsides, many damaged properties require thorough cleaning and safety inspections before they can be reoccupied. Consider if your insurance policy has additions in cover such as alternative accommodation or loss of rent (for tenanted properties) to ensure you’re covered during this period.” – Stuart Adamson, Claims Manager

Preparing for the future

Over the coming years, rising temperatures and an increase in the frequency and severity of extreme weather events are likely to raise the risk of flooding in the UK. Already, one in six properties in England is at risk of flooding from rivers, the sea, or surface water. So what can you do to prepare for the future?

Simple measures like fitting non-return valves on drains, raising electrical sockets above expected flood levels, or replacing carpets with tiles can greatly reduce future damage and recovery costs. It’s also important to review your insurance coverage regularly. Make sure your policy includes protection for surface water ingress, sewer backflow, and extreme weather damage.

If you’re unsure, speak with your insurance broker to confirm what’s covered and identify any gaps. And if you live or work in an area prone to flooding, sign up for Environment Agency flood alerts and check your local council website for maps, updates, and current warning levels. Staying informed gives you valuable time to act — and can make all the difference when every minute counts.