Flood Risk Assessment
22Flood risk assessments (FRAs) are required in England for planning permission to determine if a development is safe from flooding and won't increase risk elsewhere. Assessments depend on Flood Zones 1 (low risk), 2 (medium), or 3 (high risk) defined by the Environment Agency
Our services
Helping you navigate flood risk assessments with confidence.
Flood Zones
Clear guidance on flood zone classifications for your development site.
Risk Analysis
Evaluating flooding threats from rivers, sea, surface, and groundwater.
Planning flood mitigation like raised floors and water storage solutions.
Mitigation
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When is an FRA needed?
An FRA is needed for most developments in flood zones 2 and 3.
What is flood zone 1?
Location-Based: In Flood Zones 2, 3, or 3b (land in the floodplain).
Size-Based: In Flood Zone 1 if the site area is 1 hectare or more.
Specific Risk Factors: In areas with critical drainage problems, as identified by the Environment Agency.
Vulnerability Change: Changes of use to more vulnerable classification (e.g., commercial to residential).
Surface Water/Other Sources: In Flood Zone 1 if the Local Planning Authority's Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) indicates risk from surface water or other non-river sources
FAQ's
What does an FRA include?
It identifies flood risks from all sources, shows management plans, and suggests mitigation like raised floors or sustainable drainage.
How does climate change affect FRAs?
FRAs must consider future flood risks over the development’s lifetime.
What is the sequential test?
It shows that a proposal can’t be placed on a lower-risk flood zone.
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