A Flood Consequence Assessment (FCA) is a technical report that supports a planning application by evaluating the potential consequences of flooding on a proposed development.

The purpose of a Flood Consequence Assessment is to identify flood risk, assess how flooding may affect a development, and demonstrate that the consequences of flooding can be acceptably managed over the lifetime of the development. The assessment also considers whether the proposal could increase flood risk elsewhere and identifies appropriate mitigation measures where required.

A Flood Consequence Assessment may be required to support a planning application where a proposed development could be affected by flooding or coastal erosion, or where flood risk policy requires site-specific evidence to support development proposals.

A Flood Consequence Assessment is generally required for developments:

• Located within areas identified as being at risk of river flooding.

• Located within areas identified as being at risk of coastal flooding.

• Located within areas at risk of surface water flooding.

• Located within Development Advice Map (DAM) Zones B, C1 or C2.

• Located within identified floodplains.

• Located within areas where climate change may increase future flood risk.

• Proposing vulnerable forms of development in areas affected by flooding.

• Where required by the Local Planning Authority or Natural Resources Wales (NRW).

If you are unsure whether your development requires a Flood Consequence Assessment, Raincloud can undertake an initial screening review and provide guidance on the planning requirements for your site.

A Flood Consequence Assessment is a site-specific technical report that evaluates flood risk and demonstrates how a proposed development can remain safe throughout its lifetime without increasing flood risk elsewhere.

 A typical Flood Consequence Assessment will include:

• Review of Natural Resources Wales flood mapping and available flood risk data.

• Assessment of fluvial, coastal, surface water, reservoir, sewer and artificial sources of flooding.

• Analysis of historical flood records.

• Review of site topography and existing drainage arrangements.

• Assessment of climate change impacts and future flood risk.

• Assessment of flood consequences during a range of flood events, including extreme events.

• Advice on finished floor levels and safe access/egress requirements.

• Identification of appropriate flood mitigation and resilience measures.

• Review of compliance with TAN 15 and local planning policy.

 Every development is unique, which is why we tailor our reports to your specific development requirements in line with Welsh planning policy and Natural Resources Wales guidance.

The cost of a Flood Consequence Assessment in Wales varies depending on the size, location and complexity of the proposed development.

Get in touch via our contact form or email hello@raincloud-consulting.co.uk and we will provide a clear and competitive fixed fee quotation with no hidden costs.

At Raincloud, we aim to deliver Flood Consequence Assessments significantly faster than the typical 4–6 week industry standard, helping to keep your planning application on track wherever possible.

The overall timescale depends on the complexity of the site and, importantly, the availability of the information required to complete the assessment. This may include obtaining flood risk information and supporting datasets from Natural Resources Wales and other third parties.