This is a challenge affecting a significant number of property owners nationwide, approximately 1 in 20 buildings currently experience difficulty accessing flood cover according to the Central Bank of Ireland.
JDM is here to assist and advise members if they find themselves unable to obtain flood cover.
Below is a summary of the steps that can be taken if members find themselves unable to purchase flood cover –
- Check Whether Flood Defence Works Now Improve possibility of obtaining flood cover
The Government is continuing major investment in flood defence schemes, with over €1.3 billion committed under the National Development Plan to protect approximately 23,000 properties by 2030
Once these schemes are completed in an area, insurers often reassess risk. I recommend checking whether your area is covered by a completed or near‑completion OPW flood relief scheme via https://www.floodinfo.ie/
You may also ask insurers or brokers whether they have consulted the most recent OPW data.
- Use a Broker
Different insurers assess flood risk differently. A broker may be able to access additional markets and advocate on your behalf.
Ensuring decisions to exclude flood by Insurers is not based on outdated modelling.
A broker may be able to agree larger excesses for flood cover
- Government Supports When Insurance Is Unavailable
If a flood event occurs and insurance was genuinely not obtainable, you may be eligible for the Emergency Humanitarian Flooding Scheme, administered by the Irish Red Cross.
The scheme is specifically targeted to help small businesses of up to 20 employees (or wholetime equivalents), and community, voluntary and sports organisations.
It provides initial funding up to €5,000, and in cases of significant damage, additional support may bring the total to €20,000 following assessment.
- Strengthening Property Flood Resilience
Implementing flood‑resilience measures (e.g., flood barriers, raised electrics, non‑return valves) can:
- Reduce future loss,
- Support insurance appeals,
Some local authorities operate small-scale mitigation assistance under the Minor Works programme. Flood Mitigation Protection
- Keeping Informed
The Central Bank has noted that the national “flood protection gap” is likely to widen due to increased rainfall and climate impacts. As a result, further reforms or support mechanisms may emerge in future.
