<strong>By: Tarina Vlok, General Manager at Elite Risk Acceptance</strong>

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<span style="font-weight: 400;">The devastation caused to property as well as human lives during the recent floods across many parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal and the Eastern Cape, is absolutely heart breaking. Those affected are going to need as much help as possible over the coming days and weeks to help rebuild what they have lost.</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">This is according to Tarina Vlok, General Manager of Elite Risk Acceptances, who says that when natural disasters strike, insurers usually operate at their best. “Although capacity during a catastrophe event is usually stretched to its limit, everyone pulls together to guarantee that clients and brokers are supported in this time of devastating loss. After all, it is our business.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Vlok explains that although it will take some time to estimate the true extent of the destruction caused by the recent storms, it is safe to assume that the cost to insurers will run into many millions. “One of the biggest problems with water and storm-related damage to property is the after-effects of the flooding; the full scope of damage left by a flood normally only surfaces after the water subsides.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">With clear weather forecasted for the next week in Durban, she says that the total insured loss caused by this catastrophe, could only become clear over the next few days. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Commenting on the affected areas Vlok, notes that while Chatsworth, Malvern, Umlazi and surrounds in the south of Durban were hit the hardest, Elite claims were registered over a wide area of the metropole. “We have seen claims reported from as far south as Athlone Park (just north of Amanzimtoti) to as far north as Mandeni on the Dolphin Coast. It is therefore safe to assume that the damage from this catastrophe stretches across a massive area of Kwa-Zulu Natal. We should not forget that the Eastern Cape also saw severe storm damage, so we expect to see sizeable claims coming in from that region as well.”</span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Commenting on the nature of the damage recorded in the aftermath of the recent floods, Vlok says that some of the most common claims have so far included severe water damage to floor coverings and house contents, roofs blown off by strong winds, and damage to properties from mudslide debris. </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">“Additionally, and potentially most devastating of all, sinkholes caused by the heavy saturation of the soil have appeared. This can cause total losses of property – as has been reported on social media – leaving people displaced or worse, resulting in severe injury or loss of life.  </span>

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Vlok cautions motorists against attempting to drive through flooded areas, which may result in severe damage to vehicles, as well as endanger the lives of drivers and their passengers. “Insurance can cover the cost of replacing or repairing property, but no amount of money or effort can compensate for severe injury or loss of life in these situations. It is therefore extremely important for people in affected areas to stay safe during a natural disaster.” </span>

<strong>Vlok shares some tips for staying safe during a flood by the Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs department:</strong>

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<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stay indoors – do not go out into flood waters</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Move to upper levels of buildings or houses if the lower levels are threatened by flood waters</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not attempt to cross rivers or flowing streams</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Beware of water-covered roads and bridges</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not drive in flood waters</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Do not go swimming or boating in swollen rivers</span></li>

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<span style="font-weight: 400;">To avoid further damage to property during the wet season, homeowners must make it a priority to inspect their properties regularly. It is crucial that gutters and storm water drains are cleaned before the start of the rainy season, and that flood risks and possible leaks are identified and rectified.</span>

<strong>Vlok also shares the following tips that brokers can use to advise their clients who have suffered damage to their property following a heavy storm:</strong>

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<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Contact your broker or insurer to report the damages immediately</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unplug all electrical appliances</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Remove furniture and appliances from flooded areas on the property as soon as possible</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Remember that water can cause increasingly severe damage to your property, the longer it is left – drain excess water and dry affected areas as soon as possible</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">If your roof has been damaged, try to avoid further damage by sealing the exposed areas with plastic</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Be available to meet with the assessor at the agreed time of their appointment</span></li><li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Most importantly, stay safe. Do not get onto your roof during the storm</span></li>

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<span style="font-weight: 400;">Insurance is there to help people get back on their feet after disaster strikes, safeguarding them from being left financially crippled by unexpected events, such as floods. This brings to light the importance of ensuring you are properly covered, that all policies are up to date, and that you adhere to the requirements of your policy.</span>