Marius Kemp, Head of Personal Underwriting at Santam, says the rise of smart home technology is increasing the value of household assets rather than creating new insurance risks, making accurate disclosure, regular policy reviews and adequate sums insured essential to avoid underinsurance and claim shortfalls.

Ryno de Kock, Head of Distribution at PSG Insure, says many South African businesses fail because they are unprepared for unexpected disruptions, highlighting asset protection, business interruption, liability, cyber risk and people-related exposures as critical areas requiring insurance and proactive risk management from the outset.

Wynand van Vuuren, client experience partner at King Price Insurance, urges homeowners to prepare for winter-related risks by checking heating appliances, preventing electrical overloads, monitoring for water damage, and maintaining proper safety measures, while ensuring adequate insurance cover protects against unexpected seasonal incidents.

Funeka Ngewu, Head of Claims at Momentum Insure, says many consumers mistakenly assume all household possessions are automatically covered, warning that portable items, solar installations and underinsured valuables often fall into insurance gaps unless policies are regularly reviewed and updated.

Santam Syndicate 1918 has appointed Sam Geddes as Chief Executive Officer, strengthening its leadership team as it expands its presence at Lloyd’s. With more than 25 years of international insurance market experience, Geddes will lead the next phase of the Syndicate’s growth strategy, supporting Santam Group’s FutureFit 2030 ambitions for international expansion and diversification.

Cleme Smith, Aviation Specialist at Santam Specialist Solutions, says South Africa’s rapidly growing drone sector is increasing demand for specialised insurance that protects both the aircraft and potential third-party liabilities, while emphasising that commercial operators must comply with licensing and regulatory requirements to ensure valid cover.