New Year’s fireworks cause €9 million in private damage, tens of millions for businesses

The Verbond van Verzekeraars, the Dutch insurance association, reported Monday that private property damage from New Year’s Eve fireworks is estimated at at least 9 million euros, down from 15.5 million euros last year. The figure is based on initial claims and reports from Stichting Salvage.

The damages include fires caused by fireworks and destruction to homes and vehicles. Business losses, however, are expected to reach “tens of millions” of euros due to several major incidents. These include a fire at the Vondelkerk in Amsterdam, fires at businesses in Hillegom and Noord-Scharwoude, a blaze in a Rotterdam apartment building, and a fire in a Hellevoetsluis parking garage.

The association warned that the total cost is likely higher, as the initial estimate does not include medical expenses, business insurance claims, or damage to uninsured government property.

“The figures present a mixed picture,” said Richard Weurding, director of the Verbond van Verzekeraars. “Alongside normal festive activities, there was excessive violence against emergency responders. In the lead-up to New Year’s Eve, there was significant arson damage, including cars, and widespread vandalism. Despite this, insured private property damage appears relatively moderate.” Weurding added that more claims may still come in. “But this is the first cautious estimate.”