Insurance tips if your property has been damaged by storms
Insurance claims are expected to spike in the aftermath of severe weather throughout SA over the past few days.
In particular, the Western Cape has been hit hard by destructive winds and stormy conditions, resulting in significant damage to homes, buildings, and vehicles.
Ernest North, co-founder of digital insurance platform, Naked, said: “We expect to receive many weather-related claims via our app this week, given the forecasts of continued severe weather expected in many parts of the country.
“We also expect to see an increase in claims for damage to solar panels, given these are vulnerable to weather damage and that many households have invested in alternative energy over the past couple of years.”
Here are some tips from Naked about what to do if your home or car has been damaged due to extreme weather:
Act promptly:
Submit your claim as soon as you can. If possible, avoid a long call and use your insurance provider’s app to claim quickly and easily, which in turn should help to get your claim processed quicker.
Prevent further damage:
With more storms predicted, take steps to protect your property.
For example, clean gutters to avoid blockages and facilitate drainage. And if you can, park your car under cover when storms are forecast.
Given the wet conditions, be careful to avoid water coming into contact with electricity.
If you foresee any leaks inside your home, do what you can to protect your belongings – especially ones of great or sentimental value.
Talk to your body corporate:
If you live in an estate or complex with a body corporate, notify them immediately about damage such as roof damage or shattered windows.
For personal belongings damaged by water or wind, you will need to claim through your contents insurance.
Avoid driving if your car is damaged:
If your vehicle is damaged in a way that makes it unsafe to use, don’t drive. For example, if your windscreen is shattered, driving may be unsafe and your risk of having an accident may be higher. Document your damage:
Walk around and inspect your property. Check windows, skylights, and solar panels for any damage, and take clear photos or videos. This can expedite the claims process.
Steps to take to prevent damage to your car:
Listen to weather warnings and try to avoid driving in severe weather conditions.
If you have been caught off guard, try to get under cover and wait for the storm to be over. However, avoid parking under trees in severe weather, as falling branches can cause serious damage.
Strong winds can affect the stability and steering of your car. It can also send stuff flying into the road.
Reduce your speed and keep a firm grip on the steering wheel. Watch out for other vehicles.
Heavy rains and floods can cause water damage to your car’s exterior and electrical system.
Watch your car’s seals and undercarriage for signs of rust or damage. Repair scratches or dents to prevent further damage.
Don’t try to drive through flooded roads – rather take another route.
If you find your car in rising water, don’t restart the engine, to avoid damage. Call your insurer’s emergency assistance line for advice and a tow.
Prioritise your safety over your car if the water is rising fast.
Roads are slippery in wet weather. Slow down and maintain a longer following distance. Turn on your hazards to ensure other drivers can see you.
Steps to take to prevent damage to your home:
Regularly clean gutters of debris to ensure drainage and lessen the chances of an overflow.
Routinely inspect your roof’s integrity. Also, double-check that solar panels are installed securely and correctly.
Trim trees regularly to minimise the potential for branches or debris to damage your home.
Secure outdoor furniture to prevent it from being blown around, or preferably move it indoors or under a roof during severe weather.
“South African consumers already face higher risks to their property because of factors such as load-shedding and changing weather conditions.
“We see clear evidence in actuarial data that claims for extreme weather events have increased over the past decade,” North said.
“Considering the persistent challenge of high inflation and a volatile rand, which amplify the costs of repairing or replacing vehicles and home fixtures, it is now more crucial than ever to safeguard yourself with dependable insurance coverage.”
If you have insurance, it’s important to regularly review your cover.
Severe windstorms are known to damage homes and buidings, especially roofs and solar panels.
Review your insurance policy to ensure you are covered for the full replacement value of these, and that you are covered for storm-related damage as well as other natural disasters such as floods.
South African consumers already face higher risks to their property because of factors such as load-shedding and changing weather conditions. We see clear evidence in actuarial data that claims for extreme weather events have increased over the past decade