Newsroom
Homeowners, businesses, and drivers whose property was damaged by Saturday’s severe weather could receive thousands of euros in government assistance under a compensation plan approved by the Cabinet on Wednesday.
The storms caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, farms, livestock facilities, vehicles and solar panel systems, leaving many families facing repair bills they had not planned for.
The aid will depend on the type of property, the cost of the damage and whether it was insured. Uninsured permanent homes could receive up to €20,000 for structural repairs, while uninsured vehicles could qualify for up to €5,000.
Nicosia district was hit hardest, accounting for the overwhelming majority of damage reported so far.
Initial inspections have identified damage to:
- 183 homes in Nicosia district
- 12 homes, one livestock facility and two vehicles in Larnaca district
- 12 homes and one business premises in Paphos district
- 11 homes in Limassol district
- Two homes and one church in Famagusta district
District administrations will continue recording and assessing the damage until Monday, after which authorities expect to announce the final number of affected buildings and vehicles.
Who gets what?
Under a 2004 Cabinet decision, financial assistance following natural disasters is normally limited to certain groups, including low-income pensioners and people receiving public assistance.
However, when a disaster causes damage on a larger scale, the Cabinet can introduce broader criteria following a recommendation from the interior minister. The government said it decided to do so because of the extent of the damage caused on Aug. 29 and the need to provide immediate support.
For uninsured, owner-occupied permanent homes, the state will cover 80% of the assessed structural damage, up to €20,000. Damage to household equipment will be covered in full, based on the assessment, up to €15,000.
Uninsured solar panel systems installed at owner-occupied permanent homes will qualify for assistance covering 80% of the assessed damage, with a maximum payment of €7,000.
Uninsured business premises will receive 70% of the assessed damage, up to €30,000 for the building. Damage to business equipment will be covered in full, up to €10,000.
Vehicles without insurance covering storm damage will qualify for assistance equal to 75% of the assessed loss, up to €5,000 per vehicle.
To qualify, the vehicle must have a valid road tax licence, third-party insurance and an up-to-date MOT certificate, or must have been legally declared off the road.
Homes, businesses and vehicles covered by insurance may also receive discretionary state aid. This will cover the assessed damage up to the amount of the insurance excess, the portion the owner must pay out of pocket before the insurer covers the rest.
