question re searches

zcrat41

Hello there. I'm in the process of buying my first house (which I'm overexcited about!!) I've just had a copy of the searches back and I have a question I hope you guys could help me with.

The report asks the question "is the property within 250m of a river, flood plain or sea". It says yes. Now, this wasn't a surprise as the house is in a little town with a river through the middle!! How can I find out if companies would insure it? Is is normal buildings and contents or do you need special flood insurance?

Thanks in advance!

vegasbaby100

depending on the risk factors you may need flood insurance most the insurance providers offer this coverage and when you fill an application they will ask if you are within a flood area. You may pay a little more for your premiums but SHOULD be ok to get insurance. If you speak to the EA and ask them to ask the vendors who they are insured with!

Richard_Webster

The important point is the height above the flood plain - is the house at the same level or higher?

You can look at the Environment Agency Flood Map : http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods/31656.aspx to see the areas that might flood in extreme circumstances. You will need to got to the maximum zoom for it to be useful. Unless the property is under the blue areas you shouldn't really have to tell your insurers at all.

zcrat41

Thank you very much - good advice. Just checked on the map and I'm on the very extreme of the flood potential and the insurers are ok with it!!