Climatologists predict that the Southern and Eastern Cape is likely to experience more frequent flooding – homeowners in these areas should ensure they have insurance policies in place to protect themselves against possible flood related losses in the future. 

Caroline Da Silva, Head of Commercial Underwriting at Santam says, “Thus far the Southern and Eastern Cape floods have resulted in the industry paying out over a hundred million in claims, Santam alone has paid out over  R69-million to date. These payments were made to the few that had policies in place, but many have been left destitute.” 

According to the experts, the frequency of extreme storms, such as the one that caused widespread destruction of property along the Mossel Bay-Port Elizabeth coast earlier this month, is likely to increase.

University of Cape Town climatology professor Bruce Hewitson said extreme weather conditions or storms that in the past might have happened every 10 years, could now occur every five years. 

Da Silva says your general household insurance policy will cover you against flood losses, but you need to ensure this policy is up to date reflecting the correct sums insured and street address. “You would be amazed how many people neglect to change the address on their policies when they move and this can certainly impact on your cover”, she says. 

“Should your car be washed away or damaged in a flood, and you have comprehensive motor insurance in place, you will be covered. These policies protect you not only against accident and theft but also against storm, mud or hail damage, among others. Santam has received over 80 claims for motor cars damaged in the storms, 1120 claims from people whose homes were damaged and over 600 claims from businesses damaged by the floods. 

“While these are just numbers, behind every claim is a real story of loss. Some people lost their homes or cars and we are pleased that our policyholders have less to worry about knowing that their financial burdens are taken care of”, says Da Silva.