Summer storms in South Africa don’t do anything halfway. One moment it’s blue skies and braai smoke, the next your garden looks like a dam and you’re wondering if your insurance policy covers “surprise swimming pools.” Storm season brings a surge in claims every year, from leaky roofs and flooded lounges to businesses losing stock in a matter of hours.
The good news? A little prep and the right cover can keep you from becoming another cautionary tale. Let’s break down how to storm-proof both your property and your policy.
Fix what the rain will find
Storms love finding weak spots. Roof leaks, dodgy waterproofing, blocked gutters, it’s like they have radar for trouble. Preventative property maintenance doesn’t just protect your home or business, it strengthens your claim if something does go wrong. Here’s your to-do list before the first thunderclap:
- Seal roofs and balconies – Waterproof now, cry less later.
- Unblock gutters, drains, and weepholes – Water needs somewhere to go that’s not your lounge.
- Trim trees and cut dead branches – High winds and rotten limbs don’t mix.
- Check perimeter walls and outdoor surfaces – Water eats away at neglected structures.
Insurers will always ask about maintenance. If you can show you’ve kept things in shape, you’ll have a far smoother claims process.
Homes and community schemes: more than four walls
Covering a home isn’t just about the bricks. You need to think about what’s inside and how your property affects others. Here’s what to consider:
For Homeowners:
- Homeowners’ insurance – Covers structural damage (walls, roofs, garages).
- Household contents – For the valuables inside: TVs, appliances, furniture.
- Flood damage endorsement – Make sure you’re covered if flash floods hit your neighbourhood.
- Hail and lightning insurance claims – Ask your broker how this works. These events are often treated separately in your policy.
For Community Schemes:
If you’re in an estate or sectional title scheme, don’t assume your body corporate has it covered.
- Has the HOA done preventative maintenance?
- Does the scheme have adequate liability cover?
- What happens if water from your unit floods your neighbour’s?
Don’t forget liability cover. If your tree falls onto your neighbour’s car, “sorry” won’t pay their repair bill.
Businesses take the hit too
If you run a business, storm season doesn’t just mean a wet floor. It can mean thousands in lost income.
- Commercial property insurance looks after the building and your assets.
- Stock cover is vital, especially during November and December when warehouses and shop floors are packed.
- Business interruption cover helps keep the cashflow going when your doors have to stay closed.
A leaky roof at home is annoying. A leaky roof above your retail stockroom is a nightmare.
Smart add-ons make a big difference
This is where endorsements and extras come into play. Products like Excess Eliminator, Sasria cover, and Fidelity Guarantee are small additions that save big when things go wrong. Think of them like the spare tyre in your boot. You don’t use it often, but when you do, it’s a lifesaver.
Review before the storms do it for you
The best time to review your insurance cover isn’t after your lounge looks like a paddling pool. It’s now. Check your sums insured, add any new assets, and make sure your maintenance is up to date.
Storms might be unpredictable, but your cover shouldn’t be. Better to have peace of mind while the rain comes down than regret when it’s already dripping through your ceiling.
CTA
Don’t wait for a roof leak, power surge, or flash flood to test your cover.
Let’s review everything now, before the sky turns grey.
📞 +27 10 600 9999
TI Brokers
We make insurance speak human.
September 26, 2025 
