MAIF launches “Aux Alentours” to help homeowners assess climate risks

30 October 2024

Floods in France, summer 2016

ICMIF member MAIF (France) has introduced Aux Alentours, a free, intuitive tool designed to help citizens assess and protect their homes from climate risks. According to a study by the French Association for the Prevention of Natural and Technological Disasters (AFPCNT), 45% of French homeowners are unaware of the natural risks their homes may face. With the rise in natural disasters, MAIF aims to increase public awareness and encourage action to mitigate the impact of climate hazards.

Accessible to all, Aux Alentours combines data from MAIF and open sources such as GEORISQUES and Datagouv, providing users with personalised information about climate and technological risks specific to their homes. By simply entering their postal address, users can learn about local hazards such as flooding, drought and land movement. The platform also offers details on nearby services such as schools, shops and public transport, as well as property prices, making it an ideal tool for anyone planning to buy a home.

Engaging users with prevention advice and quizzes

Beyond simply providing information, Aux Alentours encourages users to take action. The platform offers prevention advice tailored to individual addresses and includes quizzes to test users’ knowledge of natural hazards. For example, users can receive practical tips for minimising the effects of geotechnical drought on their property.

“Prevention is essential for the sustainability of the insurance model,” said Romain Liberge, Marketing and Design Director, MAIF (France). “With Aux Alentours, we aim to provide an easy-to-use tool to help people understand the risks to their homes and take action to limit potential consequences.”

New flood risk diagnosis service for MAIF members

Originally launched in 2022, Aux Alentours has now been updated to offer a new flood diagnosis service for MAIF members. Developed in partnership with Mayane, a French organisation working to support climate adaptation, this service enables members living in high flood-risk areas to assess their home’s vulnerability. Depending on eligibility, members may be able to access financing through the Barnier Fund or benefit from MAIF’s ecological dividend for a free flood risk diagnosis, provided they meet specific criteria, such as being a homeowner with a MAIF housing policy for at least five years.

Emma Haziza, Founder and President, Mayane, highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “The adaptation of territories to the risk of flooding is a priority. As global warming continues, the frequency and severity of such events increase. We know how to help residents put in place measures that reduce the risk of water damage, and it is crucial to act now.”

About MAIF

MAIF, the sixth-largest automobile insurer in France and the leading insurer for the non-profit sector, serves more than 4 million members across various sectors, including property, health, savings and credit. In 2020, MAIF became a mission-led company, committed to paying sincere attention to others and the world around them. With a revenue of more than EUR 4.7 billion in 2023, MAIF continues to be recognised for its excellence in customer relations.

For more information, visit Aux Alentours by MAIF

For member-only strategic content on the cooperative/mutual insurance sector, ICMIF members have exclusive access to a range of online resources through the ICMIF Knowledge Hub.

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