A recent cliff collapse in Devon has left a cottage in Sidmouth perilously close to a 400-foot drop*, sparking urgent conversations about the dangers facing coastal properties. This event highlights the growing threats of coastal erosion, coastal flooding, and rising sea levels—factors that should be on the radar of anyone considering buying or owning property near the coast.

The Reality of Coastal Erosion

Coastal erosion is a natural process where waves, tides, and wind gradually wear away the coastline, leading to land loss. However, with the effects of climate change and increasingly intense weather patterns, the rate of erosion in many areas has accelerated dramatically. In Sidmouth, the cliff collapse exemplifies the rapid erosion that’s endangering properties, infrastructure, and communities along the UK’s coastlines.

For property owners and buyers, coastal erosion can turn into a nightmare. A seemingly picturesque seaside home can transform from a dream to a disaster as land disappears beneath it. Buildings close to eroding coastlines face structural risks, potential devaluation, and, in extreme cases, total loss. What happened in Sidmouth is a stark reminder that homes perched near vulnerable cliffs or beaches could one day be left “teetering” on the edge, just like the cottage in Devon.

Coastal Flooding: An Overlooked Threat

Beyond erosion, coastal flooding is another hazard that should not be ignored. When storm surges and high tides combine, especially during extreme weather events, the risk of flooding increases. Many coastal properties in low-lying areas are at risk of becoming inundated, potentially damaging homes and leaving them uninhabitable. Flooded properties not only face immediate repair costs but may also encounter long-term structural damage, mould, and foundational instability.

Coastal flooding is becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, making it crucial for coastal property owners to assess the flooding history and vulnerability of any property they consider purchasing or already own. In cases like Sidmouth, where cliffs are precarious and land stability is in question, flooding could speed up the rate of erosion and endanger properties further inland than expected.

Rising Sea Levels: A Long-Term Concern

While coastal erosion and flooding are immediate dangers, rising sea levels pose a more gradual, but no less concerning, threat. Driven by melting polar ice caps and the thermal expansion of seawater, sea levels around the world are expected to continue rising. According to climate scientists, even a modest increase in sea levels can have a significant impact on coastal regions, putting more properties at risk of both erosion and flooding.

Sea level rise has long-term implications for real estate values, insurance costs, and even the future viability of coastal communities. Some areas may eventually become uninhabitable, leaving owners facing financial losses with little to no recourse. Coastal towns may need to consider adaptation strategies, such as seawalls or managed retreats, which could further impact property values and community structures.

Protecting Yourself as a Coastal Property Owner or Buyer

If you currently own or are considering purchasing coastal property, understanding these risks and taking precautions is essential. Here are a few key steps to protect yourself:

1. Research Erosion and Flooding History: Before buying, investigate the property’s history of coastal erosion and flooding..CoastClear is your first port of call with our postcode checker. (link) 
2. Consider Insurance Carefully: Coastal properties are often more expensive to insure due to the increased risk. Make sure to read the policy details and understand what is and isn’t covered. In some high-risk areas, it may be difficult or prohibitively costly to obtain adequate coverage.
3. Stay Informed on Climate Trends: Sea levels and coastal erosion rates are likely to change over time. Keep updated on local and national environmental reports and projections, especially if you plan to own the property long-term.
4. Explore Resilience Measures: Depending on the property’s location, structural reinforcements, flood barriers, or other protective measures could help mitigate some of the risks. However, these solutions are often costly and may not be feasible for all properties.
5. Understand the Risks Before Committing: While coastal properties can offer incredible views and access to nature, it’s essential to weigh these benefits against the risks. Buying property near the coast requires a realistic understanding of potential dangers, from erosion to future sea-level rise. Make sure you ask your solicitor to undertake a comprehensive environmental search that includes coastal erosion risks and their impact from climate change over the next 30 years. 

Conclusion

The Sidmouth cliff collapse is a dramatic reminder of the precarious position many coastal properties occupy. Coastal erosion, flooding, and rising sea levels aren’t just environmental issues—they’re property issues with direct financial, safety, and emotional impacts for property owners. 

As climate change intensifies, the risks associated with coastal properties will only grow. Before buying or committing to a seaside property, it’s crucial to do your due diligence, understand the hazards, and take proactive steps to protect yourself. After all, that dream coastal home could quickly become a costly and dangerous liability if the forces of nature have other plans.

References: 

• https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/nov/02/devon-cliff-collapse-leaves-sidmouth-cottage-teetering-by-400ft-drop