Summer = Hail and storms – Are you prepared?

For the largest part of South Africa, especially in the North and the East, the summer months bring with it an influx of precipitation in the form of rain and hail. Storms are a common sight in these parts where hail causes heavy damage to property (both movable and immovable). How are you protecting your property?

Every year motorists across the country fear for their vehicles when the hail starts to fall. Uncovered and uninsured, many of these motorists are left with a large bill to cover the damage themselves. Storms and flooding are other major factors at play where lighting strikes and overburdening water volumes cause structural damage, which leads to greater losses than motorists may face.

For this reason, it is highly recommended to ensure that your insurance covers hail and storm damage.

Since hail storms can build up somewhat unexpectedly, it is always advisable to prepare for the worst, whether you’re out and about or staying at home. This way, you can rest easy knowing that you are protected from these factors that are outside of your control.

Because there is naturally an excess payable on these claims, it is also best to take preventative action when you know of an incoming hailstorm or thunderstorm.

When out and about

1. Always be aware of nearby covered parking garages so that you can wait for the storm to pass from a position of safety.
2. Keep fleecy blankets in your car so that you can cover your car with these blankets and minimise the impact of hail.
3. Drive cautiously. Many drivers lose their vehicles (and some, their lives) because of a misjudgement of floodwater levels, which is why it is best to take refuge from the storm and wait for it to subside before driving further.
4. In the worst-case scenario, when you are stuck in a hailstorm and can’t find cover, floor mats can act as a form of protection against hail, although not ideal.

When at home

1. Park under the cover of an enclosed garage or covered parking if at all possible, otherwise ensure that you cover your car with any unused blankets, towels, etc., that can minimise the impact.
2. Clear your gutters of leaves and other natural debris to ensure that they do not overflow and cause structural damage. Before the storm season starts, do an inspection of your gutters and drains and complete maintenance where necessary.
3. Close blinds, drapes, or shades, to prevent heavy rainfall, hailstones, or even broken glass from entering your home and minimise flood damage that may accompany a heavy downpour.
4. Before the storm season starts, make sure to maintain trees and other large free-standing structures around your home to prevent damage from broken branches or other kinds of debris when a storm strikes.

Be sure to contact Tokkie Ferreira Brokers should you want to add storm and hail insurance to your policy, need more information, or want to make a claim.

Click here to download the Santam Operational Circular.

This article is a general information sheet and should not be used or relied upon as professional advice. No liability can be accepted for any errors or omissions nor for any loss or damage arising from reliance upon any information herein. Always contact your financial adviser for specific and detailed advice. Errors and omissions excepted (E&OE)