Spanish real estate sector warns of impact from new flood risk decree

The Association of Real Estate Developers of Madrid (Asprima) has issued a warning regarding a proposed Royal Decree on flood risk management. The project, promoted by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, aims to organize flood risk management across Spain but has raised concerns over legal uncertainty and its impact on urban land, housing, and planning.

Asprima argues that the decree effectively converts technical flood mapping into urban planning regulations without a clear procedure for approval, review, or appeal. The association notes that approximately 33,000 hectares of built-up land are located in preferential flow zones, including over 3,600 hectares of residential areas. The new rules could impact existing buildings, ongoing projects, and current urban planning, potentially blocking renovations and property replacements.

In regions like Asturias, experts warn of significant consequences due to the geography of valleys and riverbeds. The reform tightens restrictions on preferential flow zones, which are the most dangerous areas during floods. Unlike current regulations that allow certain actions if risk-reduction measures are taken, the new proposal seeks to shield these areas from new construction. This change also affects rural land, which must maintain its rural status except for flood protection works.