Users can now view planning applications, crime statistics, and flood risk data
Property website Zoopla has introduced a new feature on its for-sale listings that provides users with detailed local information, including crime rates, flood risks, and planning applications.
The enhancement allows users to sign in to access this data, which is sourced from third-party providers and local council authorities.
The property listing platform, one of the UK’s largest, aims to give prospective buyers a deeper understanding of the areas they are considering. According to Zoopla, half of all potential buyers search for homes within five to 10 miles of their current address, while 32% extend their search beyond 10 miles. This underscores the demand for community-specific insights.
Once signed in, users can see details such as the number of planning applications submitted, approved, or denied near a property, crime statistics for the area, and whether the home is at risk of flooding. Zoopla claimed that it is the only property portal offering this level of detail without requiring a subscription. The feature is accessible across desktop, mobile, and tablet platforms.
The new functionality is part of a broader investment by the company to enhance its search capabilities. At the end of 2024, Zoopla introduced six “smart tags” that use AI to extract property attributes from descriptions, providing an additional layer of search filters.
“At Zoopla, we’re committed to giving homemovers the insights they need to make confident decisions, from crime rates to flood risks and planning applications,” said Rich Hayes (pictured), chief operating officer at Zoopla.
“By continuing to invest in our search functionality, we’re not only empowering consumers to win at moving but also attracting more motivated movers ready to take action, ultimately driving better outcomes for our customers.”
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