Statement by the SA Insurance Association on flooding and weather damage
The South African Insurance Association (SAIA) notes with concern the forecasts for further heavy rains and localised flooding in KwaZulu-Natal that have already suffered weather damage over the past few days.
With heavy rains set to continue, SAIA encourages everyone to heed the warnings of weather forecasters and local emergency management authorities.
Where there is a possibility of flooding and landslides, SAIA recommend the following safety precautions:
- Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground;
- Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car;
- If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately;
- After a flood, return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so;
- You should also be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded and take note of debris;
- Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.
There are a number of insurance products available to assist in recovering from the adverse effects of storms and flooding. These include:
- Homeowner / Building Cover: This insurance covers the building and other things that are permanent and immovable within your property boundaries. Most homeowner policies include perimeter walls, garages, gates and the motors that power them, outbuildings, swimming pools, borehole pumps, and fixtures and fittings in the house or flat itself.
- Household Contents Cover: Contents includes your furniture, clothes, crockery, linen and other items in the house. By taking out household-contents insurance cover you know that when you are affected by flooding, the insurance product will assist you by replacing, repairing or reinstating the damaged goods.
- All-Risk Cover: This covers the above categories but includes other items that you carry with you such as cell phones, cameras and laptops.
As policies vary between different insurance companies, it is important to understand the full extent of the cover provided by each policy. Should there be any uncertainty as to what cover has been provided, please contact your insurance company or broker.
Also view:
Water Damage and Claims from Home and Household Insurance
Weather Conditions and Safe, Defensive Driving
