The growing threat of surface water flooding UK homes is underestimated by many at risk, a new survey of homeowners reveals – with 80% unaware it could hit their property. For those who have never experienced flooding, just 4% think their home could be at future risk.

Surface flooding is caused during and after a deluge of rain from excess water which cannot be absorbed. But according to research by Admiral Insurance, 68% are not concerned - despite government data showing 4.6m properties in England alone already face the risk and this will increase to 6.1m in as little as 15 years. In England, there are now three times as many properties at threat from surface flooding than from flooding by rivers and sea.

27 of 65 UK councils who responded received more reports of blocked highway drains in 2024 vs 2023.

TV presenter Sean Fletcher, a member of the insurer’s new Flood Force believes greater public knowledge about the threat of surface flooding and how to prepare for it is needed. Flood Force’s experts will provide regular tips and advice on its dedicated webpage for surface flooding preparedness so people can take action to better protect their homes.

“When we hear about flooding, we usually think of burst riverbanks or high sea levels,” Fletcher said. “But surface flooding from heavy rainfall is becoming a bigger issue. We need to prepare, especially given two thirds (68%) of homeowners across the UK who could be affected are unconcerned about the risks.”

Admiral’s Flood Force initiative, which is supported by the National Trust, sees it led by Fletcher alongside Mary Long-Dhonau OBE, AKA Flood Mary, gardening influencer Danny Clarke, Joel Read from environmental consultants Ashfield Solutions and National Trust conservation and restoration specialist Ben Eardley. It will educate homeowners about the threat of surface flooding and help them take action to better protect their own homes.

Noel Summerfield, Household Director at Admiral Home Insurance, said: “Our research makes clear how surface flooding is no longer a rare event – it’s an increasing reality. By partnering with National Trust and bringing together experts through the Flood Force, we want to empower homeowners with the knowledge and tools to better protect what matters most.”

For more information, visit: admiral.com/floodforce