Sequential test
A flood risk assessment is required for most proposed developments that are within a designated flood zone.
A sequential test may be required as part of a flood risk assessment. It compares the site for a proposed development with other available sites to determine which has the lowest flood risk.
A sequential test is required if:
- The development is in flood zone 2 or 3, AND
- A sequential test has not already been done for a development of the type proposed on the proposed site.
A sequential test is not required if:
- The development is a ‘minor development’ OR
- The development involves a change of use, unless it is a caravan, camping chalet, mobile home or park home site OR
- It is a development in flood zone 1, unless there are flooding issues in the area of the development.
The sequential test must conclude whether any of the alternative sites that have been identified have a lower risk of flooding than the proposed site. It should be submitted along with the flood risk assessment and the planning application to the local planning authority.
If the sequential test shows that it is not possible to use an alternative site, it may be necessary to undertake an exception test. This shows how flood risk will be managed on the proposed site and demonstrates that the sustainability benefits of the development to the community outweigh the flood risk.
For more information see: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-assessment-the-sequential-test-for-applicants
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BREEAM Flood risk management.
- BREEAM Surface water run-off.
- Design flood event.
- Design flood level.
- Flood and Water Management Act.
- Flood defences
- Flood plain
- Flood risk
- Flood risk assessment.
- Flood risk management plan
- Flood zone
- Flood.
- Minor development.
- Planning for floods.
- Property flood resilience
- Sustainable urban drainage systems.
Featured articles and news
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.



















