"More frequent and severe rainstorms could be the new normal in coming years."
- Paul Redington, Zurich UK regional major loss property claims manager
Zurich’s research found that both commercial and mixed-use buildings in Kensington and Chelsea have the highest risk percentage at 63% in the London borough. This percentage equates to 2/5 of the capital’s businesses at risk of damages inflicted by flash floods.
Hammersmith and Fulham (56%), Merton (54%), Southwark (54%), and Wandsworth (53%) are also at high risk of flooding.
Zurich UK claims the expected flash floods have the potential to reach 42% of 301,000 commercial buildings and swamp 33,000 commercial basements in London.
Commenting on this warning, Paul Redington, Zurich UK regional major loss property claims manager, said London business owners need to prepare for the “long-term” with no end in sight for flash floods in London borough.
Redington continued:
“Flooding now poses a serious threat to the capital’s homes and businesses, especially after the severe heatwave we have experienced in recent weeks.”
In hopes of combating potential flash flood damages, Zurich UK has urged owners to protect their businesses with property protection, business continuity plans, and climate risk assessments.
Furthermore, Zurich’s recent launch of its build back better scheme aimed at helping flood-hit home and business owners improve their property resilience to future flooding has been signposted in response to the flash flood warning.
This scheme has transformed the way the firm handles claims, helping flood-hit customers improve their properties to better withstand future flooding.
