Building in Flood Zones
What you need to know about building new properties in flood risk areas — regulations, design, and resilience.
Last updated: 2026-03-27
Building in Flood Zones
Can You Build in a Flood Zone?
Yes, but with significant constraints. The NPPF's Sequential Test steers development away from flood zones, but where building is justified, flood-resilient design is essential.
Design Principles
- Raised floor levels: At least 300mm above the design flood level plus climate change allowance
- Flood-resilient materials: Waterproof materials below the design flood level
- Safe access and egress: Ensure occupants can enter and leave safely during a flood
- Flood compensation: If the building displaces floodplain storage, provide equivalent storage elsewhere
- SuDS: Manage surface water so it does not increase flood risk elsewhere
Building Regulations
Part H covers drainage and waste disposal, including protection from surface water flooding.
Innovative Flood-Resilient Design
- Wet-proofed ground floors: Designed to flood and drain without damage
- Amphibious buildings: Structures that rise with floodwater
- Floating homes: Permanently on water
- Raised living spaces: Habitable rooms above ground floor