Flood risk is easiest to deal with before you’re committed to a purchase. Use this checklist to make sure the right people answer the right questions. Start with a free flood zone check so you know what you’re asking about.
For the seller (and estate agent)
- Has the property, garden, garage or any outbuilding ever flooded? When, how deep, and where did the water come from?
- Have you ever claimed on insurance for flood damage?
- Is the property covered by Flood Re-backed insurance at the moment?
- Is any flood protection fitted – flood doors, removable barriers, airbrick covers, a non-return valve, a sump pump? Do you have the paperwork?
- Has any flood resilience work been done, such as raised sockets or tiled floors?
- Is the property signed up to Environment Agency flood warnings?
For the surveyor
- Can you see signs of past flooding – tide marks, new plaster low on walls, replaced floors or skirting?
- Are there damp problems that could be linked to groundwater or poor drainage?
- Is any flood protection in working order and fitted properly?
- Is the ground floor level below the road or the surrounding ground?
For the conveyancer
- What does the environmental search say about flood risk from rivers, the sea, surface water and groundwater?
- Do the seller’s answers on the property information form match what the searches show?
- Are there any riverbank or flood defence responsibilities that come with the property?
- When will I need insurance in place?
For the insurer
- Will you cover this exact address for flood, and at what premium and excess?
- Is the policy backed by Flood Re?
- Would fitting flood protection change the price or terms?
Keep the answers. If a seller says a property has never flooded, it’s useful to have that in writing.
Last reviewed November 2026. This guide is general information about England, not legal, financial or insurance advice. Check the Environment Agency’s own services and speak to a professional before making decisions about a specific property.
