How Much Does A Flood Risk Assessment Cost?
Flood Risk Assessments vary in cost depending on a number of site-specific and flood risk factors, however, the lowest cost option available is a Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment, which will involve a desk study of the site, analysing all available data from the Environment Agency, Local Planning Authority and any other flood risk assessments that may have been carried out in the area, following this, a qualitative assessment of all the potential flood risks to the site and resulting from development is conducted.
Where Environment Agency flood data is unavailable or further investigation of flood risk is recommended, a Detailed Flood Risk Assessment can be carried out, including site-specific quantitative flood modelling, to ensure reports are accurate and costs are kept to a minimum by avoiding unnecessary surveys and reports.
Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment Cost Breakdown
Flood Screening Study - The lowest cost option available is what is often called a Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment, which will involve a desk study of the site, analysing all available data from the Environment Agency, Local Planning Authority and any other flood risk assessments that may have been carried out in the area.
Flood Scoping Study - Following an initial site screening, a qualitative assessment of all the potential flood risks to the site and resulting from development is conducted, and included in the cost of a Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment. The scoping study will involve a more in-depth appraisal of the potential sources of flooding, historical flooding events and drainage issues in the area and will provide a more site-specific flood risk assessment. Any available topographical surveys will be assessed to determine the effect of flooding on the site by comparing predicted flood levels with the existing and proposed ground levels on the site.
Sequential & Exception Test Most often required for flood risk assessments conducted to support a planning application, the sequential and exception tests are often not included in standard flood risk surveys, however, due to their importance to Local Authorities and the Environment Agency, we include these tests with our Preliminary Flood Risk Assessments.
Our Preliminary Flood Risk Assessments cover both screening and scoping studies, in addition to the sequential and exception tests, in a single low cost report adapted to your specific needs and budget. In many cases, especially on less complex sites or sites in areas less susceptible to flooding, this low cost flood risk assessment option will be all that is required. It can, therefore, save you money by potentially avoiding the need to carry out a more detailed flood risk assessment that includes flood modelling or specification of flood mitigation measures.
Detailed Flood Risk Assessment & Flood Modelling Cost Breakdown
Flood Modelling - Where detailed Environment Agency, SEPA or NRW flood modelling data is not available for an area, or more information is needed to be able to determine the flood risk at a site, a Detailed Flood Risk Assessment, also called a Level 3 Flood Risk Assessment, will be required. This detailed study may include hydrological and hydraulic modelling and a full drainage strategy.
With the incorporation of flood modelling and detailed quantitative analysis, this will be a more costly option and only likely to be required on more complex sites or sites deemed to be at high risk of flooding, based previous assessments or Environment Agency data.
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Meet Our Flood Risk Consultants
Louis Turner, Technical Director - Having graduated from the University of Nottingham with a degree in Environmental Science, Louis is recognised for his technical leadership and precision in environmental consultancy. Louis provides strategic oversight across all service areas, ensuring projects meet the highest standards of compliance, accuracy, and environmental responsibility. Louis leads the preparation of flood risk assessments, combining hydrological data, modelling, and site-specific analysis to evaluate potential hazards. His reports provide robust guidance for planning applications, helping clients mitigate flood risks and comply with Environment Agency and local authority standards.
Joe Turner, Operations Director - Providing practical expertise and a client-focused approach, Joe ensures that every project is delivered quickly, efficiently, and without unnecessary hassle. He has successfully managed a wide variety of project types across the consultancy, bringing a wealth of operational knowledge and a reputation for keeping projects on track. Joe's leadership guarantees a smooth process for clients, from initial enquiry through to final reporting. Joe manages the operational side of flood risk assessments, ensuring hydrological modelling and reporting are completed promptly and accurately. His oversight guarantees that clients receive clear, actionable guidance to satisfy planning conditions and mitigate flood hazards.
Richard Turner, Director - With over 30 years of experience in site development, he provides invaluable insight into pragmatic solutions that balance costs, practicalities, and client objectives. Richard has a detailed understanding of building regulations and a clear sense of what is and isn't possible on site, making him a trusted advisor for developments of all sizes. Richard's background in site development allows him to assess flood risk with a pragmatic eye, ensuring that proposed mitigation measures are realistic, cost sensitive, and suitable for the specific site conditions.
Request A Flood Risk Assessment
Contact us for an informal discussion about your requirements or, if your requirements are more complex, a more formal consultation may be necessary. Following initial consultation we can provide an outline proposal detailing how we can help and the costs involved. If you're looking for more information about our services or our company then complete the below contact form and we will endeavour to respond to your enquiry in a timely manner, alternatively, give us a call on 0800 433 2906 and our experienced consultants can provide actionable advice and guidance.
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References
British Geological Society. BGS GeoIndex
Environment Agency. Flood map for planning
Environment Agency. Flood risk and coastal change
Environment Agency. Flood risk assessments: applying for planning permission