Flooding 0 newbuild homeowners exposed to policy hikes

Jill Johnstone, director of policy at the National Consumer Council in Guardian:

"Much has been made about government plans to build three million new homes by 2020. What is probably less well known is that several of the locations earmarked for development are considered high-risk flood aeras, including large parts of the Thames Gateway, east of London."

"It is estimated that more than five million people live or work in flood risk aeras in England and Wales alone. We think it is in the consumer interest to oppose newbuild on flood plains, as it makes future householders vulnerable."

"If new homes are built on flood plains, it will be difficult for consumers to get buildings and contents insurance. The issue is already affecting existing homeowners, who, after the high-profile floods of recent years, are finding it difficult to get insurance cover" .....

..... "Not all properties on flood plains are likely to flood eveyr year, so we think that insurers have enough scope to spread the risk , and ensure that they can offer policies to homeowners who need them most. There are continuing discussions between the Environment Agency and the Association of British Insurers on the whole issue of flood defence, which we hope will ensure that consumers are able to insure their homes as they always have - even if they are on flood plains".