5 years on, Londoners remember the impact of July 2021 floods
Summary
The Environment Agency marks five years since the July 2021 flash floods in London, which affected 24 boroughs and more than 2,000 properties. The article highlights the continuing high risk of surface water flooding in the capital, the vulnerability of basement homes, and ongoing partnership work to improve resilience through strategy, community action and sustainable drainage schemes.
Why it matters
Surface water flooding is a material risk for residential property surveyors assessing condition, location-specific hazards and future resilience. The article reinforces the need to consider flood exposure, basement vulnerability and local drainage measures when advising clients on purchase, valuation or property management.
Key points
- July 2021 floods affected 24 London boroughs and over 2,000 properties.
- Environment Agency data says almost 320,000 London homes and businesses are at high risk of surface water flooding.
- At least 56,000 basement homes are identified as particularly vulnerable.
- Flood Ready London has published London’s first Surface Water Strategy in 2025.
- £3.725 million has been committed to support practical action, including 20 sustainable drainage schemes.
This is an RPSA summary of a publicly available article. The full content remains with the original publisher.
