Influence of Flood Risk Awareness and Communication on Real Estate Investment Decision-Making

Flooding, exacerbated by climate change and urbanisation, poses a major global environmental challenge. In Lagos, Nigeria, one of the most flood-prone regions, understanding how flood risk awareness and communication shape real estate investment decisions is crucial. This study examines investors’ awareness of flood risks and the influence of risk communication on decision-making. A qualitative, phenomenological approach was used, employing snowball sampling to recruit 37 property investors through referrals from registered real estate practitioners. A semi-structured interviews which provided in-depth insights into their perceptions and responses to flood risks was used to elicit response from the participants. Thematic analysis revealed varying levels of awareness, with many investors lacking reliable flood risk information before making investment decisions. Key issues in risk communication included inconsistencies in information sources, clarity, and delivery, leading to disparities in preparedness and risk perception. The study found that inconsistent communication often results in risk underestimation, significantly influencing investment decisions in high-risk areas. It highlights the need for a targeted, multi-stakeholder communication strategy to enhance information accessibility and reliability. A collaborative approach involving property investors, regulatory bodies, and local authorities is recommended to improve the effectiveness of flood risk communication and support informed investment decisions.