Byggbar mark - En studie om hur utvalda aktörer värderar översvämningsrisk vid nybyggnation och för skydd av befintlig bebyggelse

Sammanfattning

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of fluvial, pluvial, and coastal flooding which require consideration in spatial planning. More frequent floods will affect the financial stability by increasing the exposure of risk for insurance companies and creditors. This master thesis investigates how selected stakeholders assess flood risk when planning for new development and protecting existing real estate. The study was conducted through a literature search and semi-structured interviews with municipalities, county administrative boards, insurance companies, creditors, authorities and interbranch organizations. The study identifies a desire from municipalities to exploit waterfront areas, where the main motives are economic benefit and to provide attractive housing. There are many opportunities to consider flood risk when planning for new development and the costs of protective measures can be shared with the developer. However, there are limitations in current legislation regarding the establishment of future protective measures. For protection of existing real estate, stakeholders emphasize that the share of responsibilities is clear but ineffective and several stakeholders demand greater accountability from the municipality. On the other hand, the municipality has no legal obligation for existing real estate and the possibility of implementing measures is hindered by the principle of equality in legislation, limited land authority and financing. Property owners have a legal responsibility to protect their property from flooding, but the study highlights that there is a lack of awareness. One reason may be that insurance companies offer extensive insurance protection against flood damage. The creditors state that a full coverage insurance is required for granting mortgages and thus, they are dependent on the actions of the insurance companies. The insurance companies’ strategy is to continue offering insurance for flood risks but at the same time emphasize that the insurance coverage may need to be limited in the future.