Banks Are Finally Realizing What Climate Change Will Do to Housing
Jun 19, 2024
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Learn how climate change is affecting housing values, impacting mortgage approvals and insurance availability in high-risk regions. Discover the rise of green mortgages and energy efficiency projects to combat climate effects on properties.
Lenders are concerned about climate change devaluing properties and restricting mortgages for at-risk coastal assets.
Banks are shifting towards considering energy efficiency in lending decisions, promoting green mortgages and retrofit offerings.
Deep dives
Impact of Climate Change on Mortgage Approvals
Climate change is affecting U.S. mortgage approvals, with hotter than normal weather leading to a decrease in approvals and their values. Lenders are increasingly worried about the impact of climate change on the assets they lend against, causing restrictions in coastal property mortgages due to risks from calamities like storms and sea level rise. The devaluation of property due to climate change is a growing concern, leading to reluctance in lending against at-risk assets.
Financial Industry Response to Climate Change Risks
Banks are recognizing the importance of addressing climate risk by considering the energy efficiency of properties as a factor in lending decisions. Energy-efficient properties are seen as more valuable assets due to lower utility bills, affecting the ability of homeowners to pay their mortgages. The emergence of green mortgages and energy-efficient retrofit offerings aims to encourage homeowners to adapt their properties to climate challenges.
Future Challenges and Solutions in Housing Industry
The impact of climate change on housing presents economic risks, affecting worker productivity and property values. As disasters like floods and wildfires strain government resources, lenders and insurers may face increased risks. The need for proactive measures, such as incentivizing energy-efficient retrofits, and providing affordable loans for relocating vulnerable homeowners, highlights the necessity for industry adaptation to climate change impacts.