The maps can help identify geological hazards known as ‘geohazards’, such as unstable ground conditions, landslips, and can indicate deposits left by floods in the past which can point to a risk of flooding.
Geological maps can also identify radon emissions, an invisible occurring radioactive gas, which if inhaled can lead to an increased risk of lung cancer.
Ian Jackson, spokesperson at the BGS, said: “A home is the biggest investment most of us ever make...geological maps help prevent a bad decision.”
BGS is converting all its large scale geological maps into digital form and will merge the primary geological map data with its current databases.
This will enable BGS scientists to delineate geohazard areas, assess potential risks and make this information freely available online through a range of services being developed for conveyancers, the public and engineers.
BGS says in the future, homebuyers, solicitors, or surveyors armed with just a postcode and house number, will have immediate access to user-friendly, authoritative and impartial geohazard information plus the option for detailed follow-up reports.
