According to scientists, the three day heatwave in June was made 3 - 4°C hotter by climate change. 40°C heat in the UK is now more than 20 times more likely than it was in the 1960s. Across Europe, the impacts have been even more severe, with extreme heat fuelling wildfires and placing further pressure on communities and infrastructure.

Climate change is no longer a future risk but a present day challenge. London has the Thames Barrier to protect against flooding, but there is no equivalent solution for heat. Preparing for a warmer world requires an approach that considers how buildings, cities and communities are designed to adapt.

Building design

Buildings, particularly in the UK, are increasingly vulnerable to overheating. During periods of extreme heat, cooling systems must work harder, increasing energy demand and, where powered by fossil fuels, contributing to further emissions.

Creating more resilient buildings requires a combination of measures, including natural shading, green roofs, reflective materials, improved insulation and passive ventilation. Adaptation should be considered at every stage of the property lifecycle, from design and construction through to operation and retrofit.

Beyond the building

The spaces between buildings are equally important in managing rising temperatures and creating healthier urban environments. Green infrastructure, including trees, parks and water features, can help cool cities, while more permeable streetscapes, shaded public spaces and a mix of building heights can improve airflow and reduce heat build-up. As cities continue to grow and regeneration projects increase density, understanding how urban design influences heat will become increasingly important.

The impacts of extreme heat are also not felt equally. Health, wellbeing and socio-economic factors all influence how vulnerable people are to rising temperatures. Those living in poorer quality housing, areas with limited green space or without access to effective cooling are often more exposed, as well as older people and those with existing health conditions.

For real estate, climate resilience is not only about protecting assets; it’s also about creating healthier, more inclusive places.

The value of resilience

As climate risks evolve, the ability of a building to maintain comfortable conditions, operate efficiently and support wellbeing will increasingly influence how assets are assessed, as shown by RICS’ revised focus on ESG and sustainability factors in valuation.

For owners and investors, buildings that are not designed or adapted to cope with rising temperatures may face higher operational costs, reduced occupier appeal and challenges maintaining long-term value.

Heat resilience should therefore be considered as part of wider investment and asset management decisions from retrofitting existing buildings to ensuring new developments are designed for future climate conditions.

Preparing for the future

Policymakers, planners, developers, investors and communities must align to ensure climate resilience is embedded into the places we create and manage.

Cities are already taking steps through greener public spaces, improved building standards and wider heat adaptation strategies. Resilience can be built into the places we create through better design, smarter investment and collaboration across the built environment, helping to protect both the long-term value of real estate and the health and wellbeing of communities.

Further information

Contact Chris Cummings or Sarune Ringelyte

Which cities lead the way in tackling extreme urban heat?