Sequential Test & Exception Test for Planning
Expert Sequential Test and Exception Test submissions for planning in Flood Zone 2 and 3 — written to satisfy all LPAs across England and Wales.
What Is the Sequential Test?
The Sequential Test is a planning policy requirement under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) designed to steer development to areas at the lowest risk of flooding. Where development is proposed in Flood Zone 2 or 3 (or on a site over 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1), applicants must demonstrate that there are no reasonably available alternative sites in areas with a lower probability of flooding.
The Sequential Test is applied by Local Planning Authorities and must be passed before planning permission can be granted for most development in flood risk areas. If suitable lower-risk sites are available, the Sequential Test will fail and the application is likely to be refused.
A well-prepared Sequential Test submission, supported by a robust Flood Risk Assessment, is essential for securing planning permission for development in Flood Zone 2 or 3.
Discuss Your SiteWhat Is the Exception Test?
The Exception Test applies where the Sequential Test has been passed but the development still needs to be located in a flood risk area. It is required for more vulnerable uses (such as housing) in Flood Zone 3a, and for essential infrastructure in Flood Zones 2 and 3.
The Exception Test has two parts, and both must be satisfied for planning permission to be granted:
Part 1: The development must provide wider sustainability benefits to the community that outweigh the flood risk.
Part 2: The development must be safe for its lifetime taking account of the vulnerability of its users, without increasing flood risk elsewhere, and where possible, reduce flood risk overall.
When Do You Need These Tests?
Sequential Test Only
Required for development in Flood Zone 2, or for less vulnerable uses (e.g. commercial) in Flood Zone 3a. Also applies to sites over 1ha in FZ1 and major developments.
Sequential Test + Exception Test
Required for more vulnerable uses (e.g. housing, care homes, schools) in Flood Zone 3a, and for essential infrastructure in Flood Zones 2 and 3.
Sequential Test — Not Required
Minor development within the existing building footprint (e.g. extensions), changes of use to equal or lower vulnerability, and some permitted development may be exempt.
What We Provide
We prepare Sequential Test and Exception Test submissions as part of our Flood Risk Assessment service or as standalone instructions.
Sequential Test Evidence
Definition of search area, reasoned justification, site identification and flood risk classification of alternatives, and a structured Sequential Test report meeting NPPF requirements.
Exception Test Submissions
Preparation of Part 1 sustainability benefits evidence and Part 2 site safety demonstration, integrated with the Flood Risk Assessment and drainage strategy.
Flood Risk Assessments
Comprehensive FRAs for Flood Zone 2 and 3 developments, including climate change, safe access and egress, flood resilience and surface water drainage strategy where required.
Frequently Asked Questions
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“Antony was great to work with when we needed a Flood Risk Assessment and Emergency Flood Plan. As an architect I would definitely use FRE Consultants again… his report went a good way in helping us get planning permission on a tricky site. Highly recommended.”
“Antony carried out my Flood Risk Assessment and has done a great job. My architect commented that the report was professionally drafted and very easy to follow. I highly recommend Antony's services.”
“Antony carried out a SuDS report for one of our projects and provided an excellent service throughout — quick to respond, clear communication, and a thorough, detailed report within the agreed timescale. We will certainly be using his services on all future projects!”
“Extremely helpful, prompt and friendly service carrying out a Flood Risk Assessment for a home project that required planning permission in a flood risk area… the price was reasonable and given up-front, and the final report was highly professional and exactly as required.”
“I had an extension completed on my house and needed a Flood Risk Assessment for planning. The service received was great and at a competitive cost. We were granted planning after first submission.”
“Nice and quick service. Recommend A++”
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