Climate Change and Its Impact on Home Buying

You might when purchasing a property weigh up factors like commuting distance, school catchment areas, wi fi coverage and local amenities. How many of us however consider climate change.  

Our climate is changing at an accelerating pace and ignoring environmental considerations could lead to unforeseen challenges. 

From flooding and coastal erosion to extreme weather patterns, climate change is reshaping the way we and our lenders assess risk and long-term value. 

Understanding climate risks can help you make a smarter, more sustainable decision when investing in a home

Why Climate Change Matters in the UK Property Market

Flooding Risks

Flooding is the UK’s most significant natural hazard, with nearly six million properties in England alone at risk. Heavy rainfall, tidal surges, and overflowing rivers are now more frequent than ever, putting homes in vulnerable areas under constant threat. The devastation from floods is not just financial—it can displace entire communities and cause severe emotional strain.  

Some key areas at high risk include:

• Coastal regions such as Cornwall and East Anglia, where rising sea levels and erosion are major concerns.  
• River-adjacent towns like York and Worcester, which have faced catastrophic floods in recent years.  

Checking a property’s flood risk is essential, as flooding can drastically increase insurance costs and reduce resale potential.  You should always ensure your conveyancers obtains a  environmental search which includes a climate change assessment. 

Coastal Erosion

The UK has a sprawling and historically significant coastline, but many areas are vulnerable to erosion. Properties on cliffs and seaside locations in regions like Norfolk and the Yorkshire coast face the dual threats of land loss and rising sea levels. Once a property is labelled as being in an ‘at-risk’ zone for coastal erosion, it may also become difficult to insure or mortgage. 

Take for example Covehithe, the pretty Suffolk coastal village, which is unlikely to exist in 100 years. The spot, about four miles north of Southwold, is seeing massive annual erosion. t's a small, quiet settlement, with a farm and a few cottages. 

And, according to the area’s Shoreline Management Plan (SMP), Covehithe’s cliffs are being eroded at a rate of 4.5 metres per year. Going by that estimation, the whole village - including the farm, cottages and Grade 1 listed church - could all be claimed by the sea within 50 years.

Extreme Weather Events

The UK has seen increasingly unpredictable weather patterns in recent years, from severe storms and heatwaves to heavy snowfalls that disrupt normal life. This volatility puts infrastructure to the test. Homes poorly built to endure extreme conditions may suffer damage or higher maintenance costs.

Energy and Water Security Concerns

While water shortages might seem unlikely in the famously damp UK, long-term droughts in some regions, like the South East, are becoming a growing issue. Combined with rising energy costs, the efficiency of your future home’s energy and water usage should be central to your decision-making process.

Climate change cannot nor should it be ignored.   Its very important when you look to purchase a home to engage a conveyancer with an awareness of the risk climate change presents, and to ensure that the conveyancer is providing the information you need to make an informed decision. You should never purchase a property without a comprehensive environmental report which includes a climate change assessment.  

At MJP Conveyancing, we are committed to addressing climate change and ensuring you have the critical information and data needed to make informed property purchase decisions.

There are some practical steps you can take of your own which include: 

Environment Agency’s Flood Maps : The UK’s Environment Agency offers free tools to assess flood risks based on location. You can enter a post code online to understand whether a property is at risk from rivers, the sea, or surface water flooding. Local council websites may also provide supplementary flood and erosion risk resources

Climate Resilience Strategies: Many councils now have climate adaptation plans that detail how they’re addressing risks like flooding and other hazards. This can give you an idea of how well-equipped the area is to manage future risks. For example, some towns have invested in new flood barriers or better drainage systems.

Check for Past Property Damage: Ask sellers questions about whether the house has previously been affected by severe weather or flooding. Historical problems could signal recurring issues, so ask for documentation about any repairs. You may also request a search from the British Geological Survey to check for subsidence risks (e.g., ground sinking) exacerbated by erosion or drying soils.

Consider Insurance Availability and Costs: If the property is in an area impacted by flooding or erosion, insurance premiums may be higher—or some providers may refuse coverage entirely. The UK government’s Flood Re scheme might offer some potential relief for high-risk homes, but it’s crucial to confirm what protection is available before buying.

The Bottom Line on Climate Planning

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make, and it’s no longer enough to think about location and price alone. Incorporating climate change risks into your decision-making process allows for a more informed and financially secure purchase. 

The UK property market is evolving, shaped not just by demand but also by environmental realities. Buyers who prioritise resilience and sustainability will not only mitigate risks but also help create a greener, smarter housing market for future generations.