Load shedding has once again become part of our everyday lives.
While there are various things you can do to deal with the impact of load shedding, you might not have thought about the consequences it could have on your insurance.
You should be aware that some insurance policies may not cover damage caused directly by load shedding.
You should also consider how the changes you make to your home to counter load shedding might impact your insurance coverage.
Generators
If you are going to install a generator, or have one, you need to know if it will be covered or if it is an exclusion in your current policy.
Damage to your home as result of a fire caused by an incorrectly installed generator will most likely not be covered by your insurance. It is your responsibility to ensure that your generator is installed correctly, and you must advise your insurance provider that you have done so.
“We cover generators as permanent fixtures under the building cover, if used for domestic purposes,” says Louis Hay, Head Actuary at Standard Bank Insurance.
“The generator must be in a secure place and not left unprotected outside. Also ensure that you store any fuel safely and are following the guidelines on the limits for storing fuel on your property as set out by your local municipality.”
Alarms and Electric fences
It is important that you have back up batteries for your alarm system and electric fence and that they remain fully charged.
“Your insurance policy might not cover you for theft as a result of your alarm or electric fence systems not working properly. Certain companies also manufacture LED security lights that remain on for a few hours at night during load shedding that can be considered as well. These extra precautions will help go a long way to help protect your home and valuables. If you are planning on leaving your home during load shedding, make sure that your alarm is on and that the battery has enough back-up power to last until the lights are back on,” says Hay.
Gas
If you plan to use gas in your home for cooking, lighting or for your gas geyser, there are certain precautions you must follow to make sure that your insurance claim is not rejected in the event of an accident. Your installer must provide you with a Certificate of Compliance.
The limits around the storage and usage of gas for home use are set and enforced by Municipal Fire and Safety Departments and you must follow them when installing gas in your home. They include the following: Gas bottles must be kept in a well-ventilated cage. A total of 100kg gas is allowed on the property, including: 19kg inside your home: and up to 81kg spare gas outside your home.
Solar
Installing a solar or a grid-tied battery powered system for security is becoming a popular choice amongst South Africans. Criminals are less likely to strike a home which is well lit on a dark street. Make sure you obtain an Electrical Certificate of Compliance for your Solar Installation as your insurer may require this.
Says Hay; “Your home is one of your biggest investments and making sure it is protected is something you should take very seriously, most importantly that the Generator, Gas or solar system is connected safely and legally. No one wants to think about what could happen, but the reality is that if you want to protect your valuables you must arm yourself with all the right information and put in place the necessary precautions to do so.”