Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva) Expands Home Insurance Access to 13,000 Additional Homes in Flood Risk Areas as New Research Shows Concern About Extreme Weather Remains High
New Aviva research highlights growing awareness of extreme weather risks and strong support for measures to protect homes, businesses and communities
- Nearly two thirds of homeowners (62%) are concerned about their home being damaged by extreme weather, such as storms and flooding, in the next five years
- One in ten homeowners (10%) have experienced flood damage to their home in the last five years
- Almost all homeowners (96%) are aware of the flood risks facing homes in Ireland
- Despite high levels of awareness, almost half (46%) have not made any improvements to protect their home against extreme weather in the last two years
- More than half (58%) believe homes should only be built in areas of flood risk if strong flood protection measures are in place
Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva) is making home insurance available to an additional 13,000 homes in flood risk areas across Ireland. The change reflects updated flood mapping and risk assessments, helping more customers access the cover that best meets their needs.
The announcement comes as new Aviva research* reveals growing awareness among homeowners of the risks posed by extreme weather, alongside strong support for measures that improve resilience and help protect homes, communities and businesses.
The research, conducted among 1,000 homeowners nationwide, examined their views towards flood risk, extreme weather and preparedness.
Nearly two thirds of homeowners (62%) are concerned about their home being damaged by extreme weather over the next five years. One in ten homeowners (10%) have experienced flood damage in the last five years, while almost a quarter (24%) have experienced storm-related damage, including damage to roofs, gutters, fences, or damage caused by fallen trees.
Awareness of weather-related risks is high
Aviva's findings show that awareness of weather-related risks among homeowners is high.
Almost all respondents (96%) said they are aware of the flood risks facing homes in Ireland, with almost half (49%) saying they are very aware.
Recent storms and flooding events, including Storms Chandra and Éowyn, have highlighted the impact severe weather can have on homes, businesses and local communities, causing damage and disruption for those affected.
Strong support for resilience measures
The research also reveals strong public support for measures that help reduce the impact of extreme weather and better protect homes and communities.
More than half of homeowners (58%) believe homes should only be built in flood-risk areas when strong flood protection measures are in place.
The findings show that homeowners want communities to be better prepared for future weather risks, while recognising the need for new housing.
Preparedness gap remains
Despite high levels of awareness and concern, almost half of homeowners (46%) have not made any improvements to protect their property from extreme weather over the past two years.
Among those who have taken action, the most common improvements include upgrading gutters or downpipes (19%), carrying out roof repairs or maintenance (18%), purchasing an emergency kit (13%) and improving drainage systems (11%).
Simple steps can help reduce damage caused by severe weather and flooding, particularly when combined with regular property maintenance, flood protection measures and appropriate insurance cover.
Top tips to help protect your home
Aviva advises homeowners to:
- Stay informed about weather warnings and local flood risks through Met Éireann and resources such as FloodInfo.ie
- Regularly inspect and maintain gutters, drains and downpipes
- Consider practical resilience measures such as flood barriers, flood doors or drainage improvements where appropriate
- Keep important documents and valuables stored safely
- Review your home insurance arrangements regularly and ensure you have the level of cover that best meets your needs
Our research shows that homeowners are increasingly aware of the impact flooding and extreme weather can have on their homes and communities. While awareness is high, there remains an opportunity for more households to take practical steps to improve their resilience. At Aviva, we are committed to helping customers access the cover they need while supporting efforts to strengthen resilience across communities. The fact that we are now able to extend home insurance cover to an additional 13,000 homes in flood-risk areas across Ireland is a positive example of the progress being made through investment in flood protection measures, improved understanding of risk and greater collaboration across stakeholders.
Joanie Hughes, Managing Director, Personal Lines, Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC, said
"We also welcome the Government's establishment of the Flood Insurance Working Group. This is an important and positive step that brings together key stakeholders with a shared focus on strengthening flood resilience, supporting communities and improving access to insurance for homeowners across Ireland" Joanie Hughes, continued.
For more information, visit aviva.ie.
ENDS
*according to research of 1,000 homeowners conducted by 3Gem Research & Insights on behalf of Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC, 2026