Flood Risk Management is the structured process of identifying, assessing and reducing the risk of flooding to people, property, infrastructure and the environment. The UK framework combines spatial planning, structural defences, natural flood management, warning systems and emergency response — overseen by the Environment Agency and Lead Local Flood Authorities.
Sources of flood risk in the UK
- Fluvial (river) flooding — main rivers managed by the Environment Agency; ordinary watercourses by Lead Local Flood Authorities.
- Surface water flooding — managed by LLFAs; now the largest source by number of properties at risk.
- Coastal flooding — managed by the Environment Agency under Shoreline Management Plans.
- Groundwater flooding — particularly relevant in chalk catchments of southern and eastern England.
- Sewer flooding — managed by water and sewerage companies; OFWAT regulates investment.
The UK flood risk management framework
Flood risk management in the UK is delivered through several interlocking instruments. The Flood and Water Management Act 2010 sets out the responsibilities of the Risk Management Authorities. The Environment Agency’s National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy sets the national direction.
On planning matters, the NPPF and the Sequential and Exception Tests govern where new development is permitted. Flood Risk Assessments are required for all developments in Flood Zone 2 or 3, or for sites over 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1.
Management approaches
- Avoidance — directing new development away from flood risk areas via the Sequential Test.
- Structural defences — flood walls, embankments, demountable barriers, pumping stations.
- Natural flood management — woodland creation, peatland restoration, wetland reconnection, leaky dams.
- Property-level resilience — flood doors, air bricks, raised internal levels, sump-and-pump.
- Warning and response — Flood Warning Service, Flood Resilience Partnerships, community plans.
Related ViaCon solutions
ViaCon supplies attenuation, storage and flow control components that underpin structural flood risk management — through flood control systems, ViaCon Storm Solutions and the wider stormwater solutions range. Related glossary entries: attenuation tank, SuDS, stormwater management and stormwater attenuation.
Frequently asked questions about flood risk management
What is flood risk management?
Flood risk management is the structured process of identifying, assessing and reducing the risk of flooding to people, property, infrastructure and the environment. The UK framework combines spatial planning, structural defences, natural flood management, warning systems and emergency response.
Who is responsible for flood risk in the UK?
Responsibility is shared. The Environment Agency leads on main rivers and the coast. Lead Local Flood Authorities (county and unitary councils) lead on surface water, groundwater and ordinary watercourses. Water companies manage sewer flooding.
When is a Flood Risk Assessment required?
A Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) is required for any development in Environment Agency Flood Zone 2 or 3, or for any development of 1 hectare or more in Flood Zone 1.
What climate change allowance applies to flood risk?
Allowances vary by source. Fluvial allowances for England range from +25% to +85% on peak flows. Coastal allowances incorporate the UKCP18 sea level rise projections. Surface water uses an uplift on rainfall intensity, typically +20% to +45%.