IMG updates earthquake damage claim process in Groningen

The Instituut Mijnbouwschade Groningen (IMG) is introducing a revised application process for residents reporting earthquake damage to their homes or property, effective November 30. Under the new rules, once a damage claim is processed, the file will be closed. Residents will only be eligible to claim additional compensation if a new earthquake occurs that meets specific intensity thresholds, such as a peak particle velocity of two millimeters per second.

This principle of conditional finality will now apply to all compensation schemes, including the 'customized with investigation' option. The IMG aims to make the process more efficient, human-centric, and easier to navigate through a clearer online application form and the introduction of orientation interviews to help applicants choose the right compensation variant. In some cases, such as repairs up to 60,000 euros, the IMG will no longer investigate the specific cause of the damage to expedite the process.

IMG Director Ronald Koch stated that the goal is to handle damage more mildly and easily without endless discussions regarding the cause of the damage. While the new rules limit subsequent claims, the IMG maintains that the threshold for new claims remains accessible, as earthquakes meeting the required intensity continue to occur annually.