Flooding is one of the most damaging things that can happen to a property.

And if you live in a high-risk area, getting the right insurance cover can feel almost impossible.

It is not. But it does require a specialist approach.

Why Standard Home Insurance Often Falls Short

Most standard home insurance policies include flood cover as standard.

But for properties in high-risk flood areas, that cover comes with conditions.

Some insurers will exclude flood damage entirely for properties that have flooded before. Others will apply very high excesses that make claiming impractical, or charge premiums that are simply unaffordable.

For homeowners in flood-prone areas, this creates a real problem.

What Is Flood Re?

Flood Re is a government-backed scheme designed to make flood insurance more accessible and affordable for homeowners in high-risk areas.

It works by allowing insurers to pass the flood risk element of a policy to the Flood Re pool, which means the insurer can offer cover at a more manageable price.

Not every property qualifies for Flood Re, and it does not cover leasehold flats or properties built after 2009. But for many homeowners, it is worth exploring.

What Does Flood Risk Insurance Cover?

A specialist flood risk policy can include:

  • Buildings insurance covering structural damage caused by flooding
  • Contents insurance for items damaged or destroyed by floodwater
  • Alternative accommodation costs if your home is uninhabitable
  • Professional drying and restoration costs
  • Damage caused by sewage or water ingress

The key is finding a policy that reflects the specific risk profile of your property, rather than a standard policy that excludes the very thing you need cover for.

What If Your Property Has Flooded Before?

Previous flood damage makes getting cover more difficult, but not impossible.

Specialist brokers work with insurers who understand high-risk properties and can often find cover where mainstream providers will not.

If your property has a history of flooding, it is worth being upfront about this when seeking a quote. Trying to conceal it will only cause problems if you need to claim.

What Can You Do to Reduce Your Flood Risk?

Taking steps to reduce your flood risk can also help reduce your premium:

  • Installing flood barriers or flood doors
  • Raising electrical sockets above likely flood levels
  • Using water-resistant flooring and materials
  • Signing up to the Environment Agency flood warning service

Some insurers will take these measures into account when calculating your premium.

Need Cover for a High-Risk Property?

If you are struggling to find flood risk insurance for your property, a specialist broker can make all the difference.

At Alternative Insurance Brokers, we help homeowners in high-risk areas find the right cover for their situation.

Call 0161 388 2520 for a free, no-obligation quote and advice.