If you’ve had to cope with rain damage to your property, you’ll be dreading the summer months.
Leaking roofs and blocked drains can cause water damage to walls, ceilings, décor, furnishings and carpets. Repairs can run into tens of thousands and if your insurance policy conditions aren’t met you’ll be forced to pay for these repairs yourself.
Most household policies oblige the homeowner to maintain the property in a reasonable state of repair. If maintenance is neglected and this results in damage to the property, an insurer may repudiate a claim.
“Most household policies oblige the homeowner to maintain the property in a reasonable state of repair. If maintenance is neglected and this results in damage to the property, an insurer may repudiate a claim,” warns Debbie Barret, general manager marketing, FNB Insurance Brokers (FNBIB). “We advise our clients to pre-empt the situation and carry out general household maintenance before the summer rains arrive.”
- Check your roof for leaks and for broken or displaced tiles.
- Make sure leaves and debris aren’t cluttering your gutters.
- Downpipes can block, creating water build-up, and overflows can cause damage.
- Check drainage and weep-holes in walls and make sure water can run off freely.
- Cut back shrubbery and foliage, if necessary.
This maintenance may seem like hard work, but it’s worth it.
“Over time, your ability to manage these risks will be reflected in your claims experience,” says Barret. “Keep claims low and you should see a benefit in the level of premiums you pay.”
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