PPS25 sets out the recommended approach for planners, local authorities and developers seeking to build new developments, or to extend existing sites - the approach being risk-based. For civil engineers, the key elements of PPS25 are the Sequential Test and the Exception Test. Climate change is a core factor in all the principles set out by the Statement.

One of the most crucial aspects of PPS25 is the requirement to prepare flood risk assessments. For developers, the issue is critical; if a proposed development does not comply with the flood risk criteria, it cannot be insured - which means it cannot be mortgaged and cannot be sold.