Data from the Environment Agency shows that there are around five million people living in two million properties in England and Wales that are at risk from flooding.
Brokers are being urged to help minimise the number of borrowers moving into such areas without checking the facts first.
Peter Bray, operations director for BBG Surveyors, said: "It is not unusual for people to commit to a sale despite the known risk of possible flooding. Some of the more prone areas can be very picturesque villages or towns where there are highly desirable and unusual old properties.
"My advice is to be as informed as possible, to minimise the risk of any nasty surprises and you will know exactly what might be instore. One of the ways to do this is to make sure that you have a detailed survey done on the property, so you can have a full understanding of any previous damage or repair work needing doing before you commit to purchase."
