Greece forest fires: Insurance claims estimated at €6.41 million

The Greek insurance market has issued its first estimate regarding damages caused by forest fires during July and August 2026. Total insurance claims for property and motor vehicles are estimated at €6.41 million, covering 164 recorded losses.

Of these, 161 claims relate to property insurance, totaling approximately €6.38 million, while 3 motor vehicle claims are estimated at €26,000. The survey conducted by the Hellenic Insurance Association (EAPE) included 25 insurance companies representing 98.5% of the property insurance market.

Errikos Moatsos, Chairman of the Property, Transport & Reinsurance Committee, noted that these fires, alongside extreme rainfall in January, highlight the increasing challenge of natural disasters in Greece. He warned that total economic losses are likely much higher due to a significant gap in insurance coverage, which places a heavy financial burden on both affected citizens and the state budget.