Zillow Now Flags Richmond Homes For Climate Risk—Here's How It Could Change Property Value And Homeownership

Zillow recently introduced climate risk scores to its home listings, bringing increased attention to how environmental changes may affect real estate, including homes in Richmond, Virginia. 

This addition follows similar moves from Realtor.com, which integrated weather-related risk factors earlier this year, acknowledging that extreme weather events, often linked to climate change, are becoming a significant consideration for buyers. 

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According to a Zillow survey, climate risk now factors into the decisions of 80% of homebuyers, and a recent report by Realtor.com found that nearly 45% of U.S. homes face moderate to extreme damage risk from environmental threats.

For Richmond homes, climate risk primarily stems from high temperatures and high winds, with First Street—Zillow’s climate risk data partner—assigning most Richmond properties a score of 7 or 8 out of 10 for extreme heat risk. 

This assessment is based on projections of days with “feels-like” temperatures reaching 107 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Richmond experienced seven such days this year alone, but First Street anticipates a 129% increase in these extreme-heat days over the next 30 years. 

Extreme heat can challenge homes by overloading HVAC systems and potentially damaging roofs, patios, and retaining walls. Additionally, very high temperatures may influence not only the durability of homes but also long-term maintenance costs, as First Street points out.

Richmond homes also show notable vulnerability to high winds, with First Street giving these properties a score of 6 out of 10. High wind events in the area are commonly driven by hurricanes and tropical storms, which generate wind speeds of 51 miles per hour or more. 

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According to projections, most Richmond homes might experience severe windstorms over the next three decades—a sharp increase from the current risk of just 1%. Local structural challenges such windstorms pose emphasize the importance of preparing homes against this intensifying threat.

Homes in certain flood-prone neighborhoods like Shockoe Bottom, Virginia, face a significantly higher flood risk. Shockoe Bottom's vulnerability stems from its low elevation and proximity to the James River, making it prone to rising waters during intense storms or heavy rainfall. 

Despite this, flood insurance coverage in Virginia remains low—around 3% of homes statewide carry this type of insurance, although recent flooding from Hurricane Helene damaged about 126,000 homes according to a state report.

Zillow's new climate risk feature isn’t just about identifying potential hazards; it’s also helping homeowners and buyers plan for rising insurance costs. Over the past few years, premiums have increased significantly, especially in areas vulnerable to climate risks. 

According to research by the Wharton School, the cost of homeowners insurance has risen by 33% between 2020 and 2023 in high-risk areas, leaving many buyers to rethink their budgets.

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