David BaleA new flood map has been developed by Aviva that can estimate the damage freak downpours can inflict on homes and businesses across the country. Dramatic rain storms forced hundreds of people out of their homes in the summer of 2007 and people experienced similar horrors when record rainfall fell in one day in Cumbria last November.David Bale

A new flood map has been developed by Aviva that can estimate the damage freak downpours can inflict on homes and businesses across the country.

Dramatic rain storms forced hundreds of people out of their homes in the summer of 2007 and people experienced similar horrors when record rainfall fell in one day in Cumbria last November.

Aviva, Norfolk's biggest employer, has worked with hydrologists JBA Consulting to develop a map using laser technology that recognises undulations in the ground as small as15cms/6ins.

The map has then been 'flooded' with a simulation of a 200-year rain storm and a digital model has been created for where the water falls and pools.

The surface water data is a further enhancement to the insurer's existing flood map that was launched in 2004 and pin-points flood risk down to a single property rather than assuming all properties in a postcode area are alike.

Previously the map focused on coastal and river flooding risk together with historical claims data.

The additional data means the model now addresses the ever-growing threat that freak downpours can have on our towns and cities.

It is for insurance purposes only and will enable the insurer to more accurately assess each customer's individual circumstances.