What to do when hit by a storm

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Climate Services Centre Bulletin forecast a normal to below normal October 2018-March 2019 rainfall season.

But the forecast also pointed to the possibility of a debilitating dry spell, punctuated by uneven rainfalls, with sudden heavy rains that can lead to flooding and destruction of property and infrastructure.

The concern for the nonlife insurance sector is the possibility of a prolonged dry spell or heavy floods, that could lead to reduced agricultural yields and catastrophic losses for the farming community. And secondly, the possible destruction of property and infrastructure as a result of floods.

Property, infrastructure

These types of events can be traumatising for consumers. As soon as the damage occurs, do what you can, take pictures and document everything. In addition to documenting initial damage, policyholders should do what they safely can to secure their home or business against the elements.

Contact your insurer or broker to report the damage and the correct process to follow when placing a claim. When the loss is happening, things can be a little chaotic.

What you need to remember is you have a few responsibilities as things are happening or have just happened, and you need to do them in the order that makes the most sense to keeping yourself safe in the process. Aside from calling the insurance company or your broker right away, this is what you have to do:

Prevent further loss, only if it is safe for you and those that are assisting you. Salvage any items you can.

Photograph and videotape the damage as soon as you can to provide this as additional proof of loss.

Do not throw anything away: the insurance company may request to see the items before they process the claim. – South African Insurance Association (SAIA)

Salvage any items you can, and prevent any unnecessary loss.

Tips in case of disaster