Waterfront living in Prince Edward Island offers undeniable beauty. Waking up to breathtaking views of the ocean, enjoying cool sea breezes, and having direct access to some of Canada’s most picturesque coastlines are just a few of the reasons people dream of owning coastal property here. However, as enchanting as waterfront living may be, it also comes with very real and growing risks—namely, flooding and coastal erosion.
These aren’t far-off concerns for future generations. They are issues that PEI property owners and buyers need to think about today.
Flooding: A Growing Concern for PEI Waterfront Properties
PEI’s coastlines are naturally vulnerable to flooding, and this vulnerability is only increasing. Rising sea levels, driven by climate change, have begun to shift the island’s landscape. Projections suggest that the sea could rise by approximately one metre by the year 2100. That may seem distant, but storm surges, heavy rainfall, and extreme weather events are already creating conditions where coastal flooding is becoming more frequent and more damaging.
For waterfront property owners, this means a higher risk of water intrusion, structural damage, mold, and loss of valuable personal property. Notably, flooding does not just affect homes located right on the beach. Low-lying properties and those along rivers and estuaries can also be vulnerable when weather conditions combine with rising seas.
Coastal Erosion: Slow But Steady Loss
In addition to flooding, coastal erosion is another threat that PEI homeowners and buyers need to take seriously. The island’s sandstone cliffs and soft shorelines naturally erode over time. On average, PEI loses about 30 centimetres of coastline per year. In some cases, large portions of land have disappeared during a single storm event.
This ongoing erosion doesn’t just affect the size of your property. It can undermine the stability of your home itself, especially if it is located near the shore. Structures built too close to the edge may eventually face serious—and costly—challenges.
Financial Implications and Insurance Challenges
Beyond the obvious dangers to property and safety, these issues also carry financial consequences. Properties at high risk of flooding or erosion may become harder to insure or more expensive to protect. In many cases, standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Obtaining specialized flood insurance can be costly, and coverage may be limited or subject to strict conditions.
Additionally, properties in high-risk areas may see diminished market value over time. Buyers are often hesitant to invest in homes that could face future threats, and new regulations on building or development in flood-prone zones could restrict renovations or improvements.
What Property Owners and Buyers Can Do
While these risks are real, they do not necessarily mean that waterfront property ownership should be avoided. Instead, they underscore the importance of informed and proactive decision-making.
For new buyers, it is critical to research a property’s flood and erosion risk before making an offer. Use PEI’s coastal flood maps and consult local experts to understand the vulnerabilities of the location. If you already own waterfront property, there are steps you can take to mitigate potential problems.
Elevating homes above projected flood levels can significantly reduce damage during flood events. Maintaining or restoring natural buffers, such as dunes and wetlands, can help absorb floodwaters and slow erosion. In some cases, engineered solutions such as seawalls may be an option, though these are not always permitted and may have environmental drawbacks.
Above all, staying informed is key. Resources like the PEI Flood Guide and Coastal Property Guide are valuable tools for homeowners and prospective buyers alike. They offer practical advice, risk assessments, and up-to-date information about regulations and best practices.
A Balanced Approach to Coastal Living
Prince Edward Island’s waterfront properties will always be highly sought after for their natural beauty and quality of life. However, with that beauty comes responsibility. Flooding and erosion are not just abstract threats — they are part of the reality of coastal living today.
By understanding the risks and taking steps to manage them, property owners can continue to enjoy all that PEI’s coastal communities have to offer while protecting their investments and contributing to the resilience of the island’s fragile shoreline.
At [Your Real Estate Team Name], we live and work right here on Prince Edward Island.
We know waterfront living comes with incredible rewards—and important responsibilities.
From reviewing flood maps to connecting you with the right local experts, our team will guide you every step of the way to ensure your next property is both breathtaking and built on peace of mind.
Contact us now to get started.