Robison & Co

by

The UK is unprepared for floods: How to protect your home from flooding

The UK is unprepared for floods: How to protect your home from flooding

How to protect your home from flooding

You’ve worked hard to make your house a home. But with floods becoming more frequent and severe, many UK homeowners face serious risks without realising it. How to protect your home from flooding is no longer a question for the future—it’s a necessity now. Water damage can destroy property, ruin belongings, and leave families displaced for months.

The problem? Most homeowners aren’t prepared. Many don’t know their flood risk or assume standard home insurance will cover any damage. However, that’s not always the case. If a flood strikes, will you be left to face the costs alone?

The good news is, you can take action now to protect your home and finances. Therefore, here’s how to get prepared before it’s too late.

Why floods are a growing threat to UK homeowners

Floods are no longer just a rare event—they’re happening more often and in places that never used to flood. Climate change, aging drainage systems, and rapid urban development have increased the likelihood of water damage. As a result, homeowners face greater risks than ever before.

Here’s what’s putting UK homes at risk:

  • Heavier and more frequent storms overwhelm drainage systems.
  • New housing developments are being built on flood-prone land.
  • Rivers and coastal areas are experiencing rising water levels.
  • Flash floods are becoming unpredictable, striking without warning.

The result? More homes are at risk than ever before. Yet, most homeowners haven’t taken steps to protect themselves—leaving them exposed to costly damage and disruption.

How to protect your home from floodingA flooded street in a historic town, with water submerging sidewalks and creeping towards red brick buildings and parked cars. The sky is overcast, suggesting recent heavy rainfall.

If you wait until a flood warning is issued, it may be too late to act. Instead, take these proactive steps now to minimise damage and ensure your home is flood-ready.

1. Check your flood risk before it’s too late

Many homeowners don’t realise their property is at risk until they experience a flood first-hand. Therefore, don’t wait for disaster—check now!

  • Use government flood maps to assess your property’s flood risk.
  • Sign up for Met Office and Environment Agency flood alerts.
  • Monitor weather reports, especially in autumn and winter.

2. Strengthen your home’s flood defences

You can’t stop a flood, but you can limit the damage. Fortunately, small improvements now can prevent significant costs later.

  • Install flood barriers on doors and airbricks.
  • Use sandbags to block water from entering.
  • Waterproof key areas like doors, windows, and external walls.
  • Keep electricals and valuables elevated to avoid water damage.

3. Create an emergency flood plan

A flood can happen fast. Therefore, knowing what to do in an emergency is key.

  • Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
  • Prepare a flood emergency kit (torch, batteries, first aid, bottled water).
  • Store important documents in waterproof bags.
  • Plan an evacuation route in case you need to leave quickly.

A well-prepared plan can reduce panic and help you protect your family and belongings. Several cars, including a silver hatchback, are partially submerged in floodwater on a busy street. Traffic is halted as flood levels rise, affecting commuters and businesses.

4. Review your home insurance now, not later

Many homeowners assume flood damage is covered by their home insurance. However, that’s not always the case. Standard policies may not include flood cover, leaving you responsible for repairs.

✔ Check if your insurance includes: ✔ Flood damage cover for repairs and replacements. ✔ Alternative accommodation costs if your home becomes uninhabitable. ✔ Fast claims support to help you recover quickly.

At Robison & Co, we offer bespoke home insurance policies tailored to your needs, so you’re never left unprotected.

What happens if you do nothing?

Without proper flood protection, the impact could be devastating. Therefore, taking action now is essential.

  • Financial stress – Repairing flood damage can cost tens of thousands.
  • Lost belongings – Priceless items like photos and heirlooms can be ruined.
  • Months of disruption – Some homes never fully recover from severe floods.

But you have the power to change this. By preparing now, you can protect your home and avoid unnecessary costs.

 

Robison & Co: Supporting you through every storm

At Robison & Co, we understand the real impact of flooding—and we’re here to help. We don’t just offer insurance; we offer peace of mind. Our expert team provides:

✔ Tailored home insurance that protects you against flooding.
✔ Expert advice to ensure your policy meets your exact needs.
✔ Dedicated support when you need it most.

Don’t wait for the next storm to find out you’re underinsured.

To discuss a new policy, or your current policy, please get in touch with us via one of the options below!

01730 265500 | hello@robison.co.uk | Contact request form