12 December 2025
At Zululand Insurance Brokers, we want to make sure you’re ready for the rainy season ahead. Many claims at this time of year aren’t just caused by storms or floods, but also by small maintenance issues that could have been prevented. By taking a few proactive steps now, you can avoid unnecessary losses, excess payments, and a lot of inconvenience later.
(Thank you to OMART Insure for sharing these valuable insights.)
Buildings & Property
- Clear gutters, downpipes, and drains to prevent water build-up and overflow.
- Check roofing, flashings, tiles, and waterproofing for cracks, loose fittings, or leaks.
- Make sure stormwater channels and weep holes are free from blockages.
- Trim back trees and branches that could cause damage in strong winds.
- Protect electronics like TVs, computers, and appliances from power surges by using plug-in surge protectors or a whole-house surge protector. Many claims come from lightning or load fluctuations – prevention is far cheaper than repairs.
Vehicles
- Ensure windscreen wipers, tyres, and lights are in good working order.
- Check tyre tread regularly – aquaplaning can happen quickly, even in shallow puddles.
- When the rain comes:
- Park in elevated areas where possible to avoid flooding.
- Avoid driving through flooded roads – it can ruin your engine and damage your vehicle.
- Never use cruise control in wet conditions. If your car loses traction, cruise control can cause the engine to surge dangerously.
General Housekeeping
- Store valuables, chemicals, and electrical items off the ground to reduce flood risk.
- Back up your important documents and data.
- Review your insurance policies to ensure your cover is up to date and sums insured are adequate.
Remember: Routine maintenance is your responsibility. Damage caused by lack of upkeep – like blocked gutters or worn-out roofing – may not be covered under your policy. By preparing now, you’ll be in a much stronger position to weather the storms and minimise potential losses.
