Kazmierczak, A and Bichard, E (2010) Investigating homeowners' interest in property-level flood protection. International Journal of Disaster Resilience in the Built Environment, 1(2), pp. 157-172. ISSN 1759-5916
Abstract
Purpose: The inevitability of climate change and its consequences brings on the need to find new ways of adapting to extreme events, such as floods. One immediate measure would be to make physical improvements to houses to either prevent their inundation or minimise the damage when flood waters enter premises. Currently, the level of implementation of these measures is low. This paper aims to assess the willingness of house owners living in flood risk zones to carry out works that make their homes better protected against flooding. Design/methodology/approach: Householders (101) in low- and medium-income areas of Salford, north west of England were interviewed on their perceptions of climate change consequences, willingness to make physical improvements to their properties and preparedness to pay for them. Findings: The homeowners are concerned about the climate change effects on their homes, feel responsible for protection of their properties against flooding and express interest in several flood protection measures. The median value respondents are willing to pay is under £100. Research limitations/implications: This study is carried out on a small sample of respondents and national-scale survey is recommended. Practical implications: There is a need for action to increase the motivation to invest in property-level flood measures among house owners, which should include awareness raising actions, subsidies and incentives promoting sustainable behaviour. Originality/value: The paper investigates the new subject of property-level flood protection and provides a comprehensive analysis of homeowners' perceptions of climate change risks and willingness to act.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | floods; individual perception; residential property; United Kingdom |
| Index terms: | residential property, owner, subsidy, England, extreme event, implementation, income, flooding, United Kingdom, motivation, homeowner, survey, climate change, methodology |
| Subjects: | data collection methods, construction type, climate science, psychology, economic analysis, contractual arrangements, research methods, Geography, sociology, environmental hazards |
| Topics: | Sustainability, Procurement, Construction Technology, Stakeholder Management, Research Practice, Geographical Context, Business Strategy, Human Resources |
| Descriptive scope: | 4 PCTE |
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