Spanish housing overheating affects 12 million homes

Approximately 12 million homes in Spain are experiencing overheating issues, particularly those constructed before 1979 that lack modern energy efficiency and insulation standards. The association Andimat is calling for climate adaptation to be integrated into housing and rehabilitation policies to address rising heatwaves and an aging population.

Data from AEMET indicates that 2026 recorded the warmest summer in the historical series, featuring 61 days of heatwaves. The health impact is significant; the MoMo system from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III has recorded over 4,000 deaths during July and August, with more than 6,000 deaths recorded so far this year.

Vulnerable groups, including the elderly living alone, low-income households, and those in older homes with poor thermal conditions, are at the highest risk. Priority actions for mitigation include improving thermal insulation in facades, roofs, and floors to reduce heat accumulation and cooling demands.