The Telescope climate risk score is a single number from 0 to 10 that summarizes how exposed a property is to climate risk. It gives you a quick way to assess and compare properties without reviewing every individual hazard.
How the score works
The score is not a simple average. It's designed to highlight the risks that matter most, based on three principles:
Serious risks weigh more. A single high-exposure hazard will always outweigh several low-exposure ones combined. This reflects the reality of climate damage, where one severe event can have far greater consequences than many minor ones.
Grounded in real insurance data. Each hazard is weighted based on historical insurance claim data. Hazards that have historically led to higher costs carry more weight in the final score. This ties the number to actual financial consequences, not just theoretical exposure.
Peak risks drive the score. The most impactful hazard is identified as the "peak driver" and gets additional weight. This ensures the most dangerous threat stays visible in the final number.
What the score ranges mean
The score falls into three categories:
0.0 to 3.3 (low risk). The property has minimal exposure. Current risks are unlikely to cause significant financial or physical disruption.
3.4 to 6.6 (medium risk). Moderate exposure detected. One or more hazards are present that could impact long-term value or operational costs.
6.7 to 10.0 (high risk). Significant vulnerability. The property is exposed to high-impact hazards with the potential for severe financial consequences.
Good to know
The risk score shows exposure, not a prediction that something will happen. A high score means the property is in an area that could be affected under extreme conditions. It does not mean there is an acute threat.
The score is based on the best available public data. Quality varies between different hazards and regions. We are transparent about uncertainties and update the data regularly.
You can always expand the individual hazard cards below the score to see exactly which risks are driving it and what the exposure level is for each one.