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When a loss occurs at home, the consequences are not always limited to property damage. Sometimes the home becomes so damaged that living in it is impossible. This is where the concept of uninhabitability comes into play.

This article explains what it means for a home to be uninhabitable, when you can claim compensation, and how to increase your chances of success — especially if your insurer tries to minimize your payout.

What Is Home Uninhabitability?

Uninhabitability refers to a situation where a home does not meet the minimum conditions for safe, hygienic, or healthy living. This usually results from incidents such as fires, floods, or explosions.

It is not just about damage — it’s about a home that is unsafe or impossible to live in.

Examples of uninhabitability:

Flooding that blocks access or creates unhealthy humidity

Fires that damage structures, wiring, or roofs

Natural disasters (e.g. DANA storms) that render the house unusable

Water leaks causing toxic conditions or electrical risk

When Can You Claim Compensation for Uninhabitability?

Most home insurance policies include temporary uninhabitability coverage. This means that if a covered loss makes your home unlivable, you are entitled to compensation.

Conditions to claim:

The loss must be covered by your policy

A professional must certify the home is uninhabitable

You must have an adjuster’s report detailing the damage

Important: If the loss was caused by natural events (heavy rain, earthquakes) and your policy doesn’t cover it, the Spanish Insurance Compensation Consortium (CCS) may step in.

What Does Uninhabitability Coverage Include?

This coverage typically reimburses temporary accommodation expenses while repairs are made. It may include:

Hotel stays or temporary rentals

Moving costs

Additional living expenses

Coverage limits typically range from 10%–20% of the insured building value.

How to Successfully Claim Uninhabitability

1. Notify the loss quickly You have 7 days (unless your policy says otherwise) to notify your insurer.

2. Document the damage Take photos and videos showing why the home cannot be lived in. Save all invoices and quotes.

3. Request the insurer’s adjuster Be present during the visit and clearly explain how the loss affects your daily life.

4. Obtain a formal uninhabitability report This must be issued by a qualified technician (architect, municipal technician, etc.) and is key for the claim.

5. Calculate your lodging expenses Keep receipts for hotels, rentals, and transportation. Ensure they fit within policy limits.

6. Negotiate or escalate if needed If the offer is too low or denied, you can:

File a written complaint

Contact the insurer’s ombudsman

Work with experts like MataSeguros

Why Do Insurers Reject These Claims?

Even though coverage is included, many insurers:

Argue the home is still habitable

Offer very low compensation

Reject expenses as “not justified”

This is why it’s crucial to fight for what you are owed.

What If the Loss Was from a Natural Disaster?

If caused by floods, earthquakes, or storms, the CCS may be responsible. Steps:

Get the uninhabitability report

Gather proof

Submit your claim to the CCS online or with professional help

Need Help? MataSeguros Can Assist

We specialize in helping policyholders claim what they are owed. If your home is uninhabitable and your insurer is underpaying, we can help.

We review your case for free, negotiate for you, and only charge if you get paid.

Conclusion

Uninhabitability coverage is a little-known but crucial right after a major loss. Filing correctly can mean the difference between weeks of hardship and having proper accommodation.

At MataSeguros, we help you claim what you deserve and protect your peace of mind.