Rising cost of flood related claims (Dec 00)

The Association of British Insurers has increasingly been concerned about the possible rise in flood related claims in the UK due to the potential impacts of global warming and increased development in the floodplain.

Between 950,000 and 1.2million properties in the UK are at risk of inland flooding.

Climate change and increased building development within or near floodplains are the two main factors affecting the likelihood of extreme floods.

There is now a general consensus that both inland and coastal flooding may become more frequent and severe, while at the same time flooding is likely to become more unpredictable.

Exacerbating this threat is the requirement for new development to meet government housing targets; Over 3 million new houses are projected overall in England and Wales by 2016 and suitable land is scare.

Floodplains are under increasing pressure for development for both new housing and commercial premises.

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