Urban areas host 80% of England’s homes at high risk of flooding, study finds
A recent study reveals that 80% of homes in England at high risk of flooding are located in urban areas. The National Housing Federation reports that 839,000 urban homes are vulnerable, with social housing tenants facing the greatest financial risks. The increase in at-risk homes is attributed to extreme rainfall, aging infrastructure, and rapid urbanization.
- ▪Urban areas in England host 80% of homes at high risk of flooding, according to a study by the National Housing Federation.
- ▪The number of homes at risk has tripled since 2018, with 839,000 now classified as vulnerable to surface-water flooding.
- ▪Social housing tenants are disproportionately affected, often lacking contents insurance and facing significant financial losses.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Flooding in York city centre. Areas such as Thurrock, Basildon, Bootle and Sefton ranked top for having the highest proportion of at-risk homes. Photograph: Lindsey Parnaby/EPAView image in fullscreenFlooding in York city centre. Areas such as Thurrock, Basildon, Bootle and Sefton ranked top for having the highest proportion of at-risk homes. Photograph: Lindsey Parnaby/EPAFloodingUrban areas host 80% of England’s homes at high risk of flooding, study findsExclusive: 839,000 homes in urban areas face threat of surface-water flooding, with social housing tenants most vulnerable to costsJessica Murray Social affairs correspondentWed 29 Apr 2026 01.00 EDTLast modified on Thu 30 Apr 2026 05.27 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleEight in 10 of the homes that are at high risk of flooding in…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Guardian — World.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from The Guardian — World
