The Deputy Minister of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection, Kostas Katsafados, outlined the government’s planned relief measures for those affected by the wildfires in Attica and Boeotia, stressing the urgent need to support fire victims. He announced that the first phase of property inspections in the affected areas would be completed within the next three days, allowing compensation procedures to begin immediately.
Greece wildfires: 100% compensation for damaged homes, rent subsidies up to €500
Speaking on Monday morning (3/8) on ERTnews, Kostas Katsafados outlined the measures expected to be announced later that day. He stated that residents whose homes are deemed uninhabitable due to fire damage will receive a rent subsidy. At the same time, compensation will reach 100% for fire-damaged properties, whether they are primary or secondary residences. As he specifically noted: “One month from today, once the inspection process is complete, fire victims will have the right to submit a claim, and the compensation they receive for repairs or reconstruction will reach 100% — for both primary residences and holiday homes.”
He added that emergency welfare payments for fire victims will begin immediately, including a basic needs allowance of up to €6,000, depending on the extent of damage sustained. Additionally, ENFIA property tax payments will be suspended for all property owners whose homes are deemed uninhabitable.
Regarding the rent subsidy, the Deputy Minister clarified that a rent subsidy of up to €500 will be provided when a building is declared uninhabitable, with the exact amount depending on the number of family members. Residents will be able to submit their applications at offices designated by their municipality, once the property inspection has been completed.
Digitization of compensation procedures
The Deputy Minister also addressed the digitization of the compensation process, noting that following the passage of the relevant bill at the end of August, citizens will be able to submit their applications online, upload the required documents, and track the progress of their claims through a dedicated digital platform.
Support for businesses
Support will also be extended to fire-affected businesses. The Deputy Minister noted that damage to building infrastructure will be treated in the same manner as residential properties, while equipment and machinery losses will be eligible for a subsidy covering 70% of the damage. Additional measures under consideration include the suspension of tax and social security obligations. Further announcements are expected following the afternoon session of the Government Committee on State Relief.
Compensation for farmers and livestock farmers
Regarding the agricultural sector, the Deputy Minister noted that ELGA (the Greek Agricultural Insurance Organization) will take charge of recording and addressing losses to plant capital, while compensation for livestock farmers who lost animals and assets will also be examined. As he emphasized: “Our goal is the immediate compensation of those affected and the fastest possible return to normality for the impacted areas.” Final decisions regarding farmers and businesses are expected following the session of the Government Committee on State Relief.
Announcements expected today
The full package of support measures for fire victims will be officially announced this afternoon, following the government committee meeting.
