Housekia Flood Risk Assessment Checklist

Flooding remains one of the biggest risks to real estate investments across Nigeria — from coastal zones in Lagos to riverine communities along the River Niger and River Benue.

Before buying land, developing property, or investing in real estate, use this Housekia Flood Risk Assessment Checklist to evaluate your exposure and make informed decisions.

🏗️ 1. Location & Environmental Risk Check

☐ Is the property located in a known flood-prone area?

☐ Is it close to a river, lagoon, canal, or wetland?

☐ Has the area experienced flooding in the last 5–10 years?

☐ Is the land situated on a natural floodplain?

☐ Is the site lower than surrounding properties?

👉 Pro Tip: Speak with long-term residents to understand the area’s flooding history.

🌧️ 2. Drainage & Water Flow Assessment

☐ Are there functional drainage channels around the property?

☐ Are the drainage systems wide and well-maintained?

☐ Are gutters regularly cleaned and free from blockage?

☐ Does rainwater stagnate after heavy rainfall?

☐ Is there a proper slope directing water away from the building?

👉 Poor drainage is one of the leading causes of urban flooding in Nigeria.

🏢 3. Building & Structural Safety Check

☐ Is the building foundation elevated above road level?

☐ Are floor levels raised above known flood marks?

☐ Is there a damp-proof course installed?

☐ Are electrical systems elevated above ground level?

☐ Is the septic tank properly sealed and elevated?

👉 Low foundation levels significantly increase flood damage risk.

📜 4. Regulatory & Planning Compliance

☐ Has the property received proper government approval?

☐ Was an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) conducted?

☐ Does the development comply with state urban planning laws?

☐ Is the land free from government acquisition or setback issues?

👉 Illegal structures on waterways are often demolished or severely affected during floods.

🌊 5. Proximity to Major Water Bodies

☐ Is the property near major rivers such as:

River Niger

River Benue

Ogun River

☐ Is it located in a coastal or lagoon-facing community?

☐ Has the area been affected by dam water releases in the past?

👉 River overflow and upstream dam releases significantly increase seasonal flood risk.

🌳 6. Environmental & Land Condition Review

☐ Has excessive sand filling been done on the land?

☐ Is the soil type suitable for drainage (sandy vs clay)?

☐ Is the surrounding vegetation intact?

☐ Has deforestation altered natural water pathways?

👉 Clay soil retains water longer and increases flood risk.

💼 7. Insurance & Financial Risk Consideration

☐ Is flood insurance available for the property?

☐ What is the estimated cost of flood repairs?

☐ Will flooding reduce rental or resale value?

☑ Have you budgeted for preventive drainage improvements?

🚨 Risk Rating Guide (Housekia Method)

After completing the checklist, rate the property:

🟢 Low Risk: Good drainage, elevated structure, no flood history

🟡 Moderate Risk: Minor drainage issues, occasional water pooling

🔴 High Risk: Flood history, poor drainage, low elevation, near water body

🏠 Final Recommendation

Before purchasing or developing any property in Nigeria:

✔ Conduct physical site inspections during rainy season

✔ Consult town planning authorities

✔ Verify flood history from residents

✔ Invest in proper drainage and elevation

Flood prevention is far cheaper than flood damage repair.

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