The UK is desperately in need of a co-ordinated government flood management strategy, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).
The UK is desperately in need of a comprehensive government co-ordinated flood management strategy, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).
ABI property and household manager Jane Milne told The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors today that property owners can take steps to protect themselves, but there is only so much they can do. This is because "key decisions on flood defences and flood management rest with the government".
She added: "The current lack of an effective flood defence strategy in the UK means that much-needed improvements to many flood defences are hampered by complex bureaucracy, as well as under-funding."
On a more positive note, the ABI said that the government's recent consultation document contained some welcome proposals.
The ABI is urging the government to act on this issue so not only are individuals better protected, but insurers can also keep their premiums down.
Milne said: "Insurers want to continue to provide affordable flood cover to as many property owners as possible."
