Applications for Disaster Damage Certificates Will Be Accepted Starting July 30
Those whose homes, business premises, or other properties were damaged by the recent earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture may be eligible to apply for a Disaster Damage Certificate or other related certificates.
The City of Kumamoto will begin accepting applications on July 30, 2026.
What Is a Disaster Damage Certificate?
A Disaster Damage Certificate is an official document issued by a municipal government after assessing and certifying the extent of damage caused to a residential property by a disaster.
Depending on the extent of the damage and the eligibility requirements of each support program, the certificate may be used for the following procedures:
- Applying for financial assistance under the Support for Reconstructing Livelihoods of Disaster Victims program
- Applying for reductions or exemptions from taxes and insurance premiums
- Applying for disaster relief or condolence payments
- Applying for admission to public housing
- Applying for assistance with home repairs or reconstruction
- Providing supporting documentation when making an insurance claim
The assistance and support available will vary depending on the extent of the damage and the requirements of each program.
For Those Whose Homes Have Been Damaged
Those whose residential properties have been damaged should refer to the information provided by the City of Kumamoto.
City of Kumamoto
“Information for Those Whose Homes Have Been Damaged”
For Businesses Whose Shops, Offices, Factories, or Equipment Have Been Damaged
Business operators whose shops, offices, factories, other business premises, or business equipment have been damaged by the earthquake should refer to the information provided by the City of Kumamoto for affected businesses.
City of Kumamoto
“Information for Businesses Whose Premises or Business Equipment Have Been Damaged by a Disaster”
Important Information Before Applying
The types of damage covered, application procedures, application locations, and required documents may differ depending on whether the damage involves a residential property or a business premises.
Those considering an application are advised to take photographs clearly showing the extent of the damage and to keep a record of the condition of the property before beginning any repairs or cleanup work.
Please refer to the official City of Kumamoto webpages above for full details.
We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this disaster.
We sincerely hope for everyone’s safety and for the earliest possible recovery of the affected areas.