Landlords affected by flooding or subsidence are paying significantly more for their home insurance, as recently released figures show a significant increase in claims for these issues. 

Between 2016 and 2024, flood and subsidence-related claims rose by 58% across the UK.

The data comes from Go Compare which analysed claim data from the past nine years to reveal a jump in these types of claims. In the same period, general home insurance claims only increased by around 20% – meaning that claims linked to these environmental risks are growing at nearly three times that rate.

As a result, affected residents are paying more for their cover. Statistics from the insurance comparison site show that properties with a history of flooding pay, on average, £227 more for home insurance each year.^[2] Houses affected by subsidence are hit even harder, facing a typical premium increase of £318.

Residents living in homes with a history of flooding will pay an average of £454 for their home insurance, compared to £227 for an unaffected property. Living in a house previously affected by subsidence also means average insurance premiums of £545 per year, compared to £227 for an unaffected property.

Claims linked to these environmental risks are also growing when compared to the number of overall home insurance purchases. Home insurance policies bought with a history of flood and subsidence-related claims rose by 80% over nine years.

The insurance comparison site explains that the increased cost of cover for flood or subsidence-affected homes is due to the properties being considered higher risk. As more frequent extreme weather and unstable ground conditions lead to more claims being made, insurers will adjust premiums to account for the likelihood of repeat claims.

A spokesperson for Go Compare says: “Flooding and subsidence are no longer just an occasional headache for a few unlucky homeowners, but are fast becoming widespread concerns for residents. Erratic and severe weather changes are playing a part in the growing risk of these events. 

“Shifts between prolonged warm and dry spells and storms can lead to flash floods and changing ground conditions. These extremes are becoming more frequent, like we’ve seen with the recent record hot weather.

“With an uptick in claims being made for affected properties, rising premiums are also becoming a more pressing issue for homeowners. If you’ve seen your premiums rise because of flooding or subsidence, there are steps you can take that might help. 

“Shop around for different insurance providers – some specialise in higher-risk properties, so comparing could help you find a policy that balances good cover with a more affordable price.

“As these environmental issues become more common, it’s key for homeowners to stay ahead of the game. Knowing how these risks impact your premiums and taking action to protect your property can make a real difference, both in managing costs and making sure you’re properly covered.”