Funeka Ngewu, Executive Head of Claims and Procurement, Momentum Insure

However, the risks your property faces may look different as the seasons change. It also depends on where you’re located: in the Western Cape, it’s fire season in the summer months, with winter bringing storms and floods. In Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, by contrast, Summer and Spring means peak storm risk. No matter where you are, here’s how you can keep your home safe and sound.

1. Storms

Summer and Spring are peak storm seasons for much of the country. Unpredictable weather can cause chaos on the roads and at home. Keep up with the pace of change:

• Inspect your roof and clean out your gutters at least twice a year - before and after the rainy season. Any damage can be quickly repaired, and you’ll have the best chance of a leak-free season.
• Look out for weather alerts, especially if strong winds or heavy rains are predicted.
• Secure your outside area before the storm. Move outdoor furniture under cover and consider moving decor and equipment inside. Watch out for hanging pot plants.
• If you can’t move your car into a garage or carport, use a soft cover to protect it from hail.
• Storms can damage electrical equipment, so keep an emergency light and candles in case of an outage.

2. Flooding

Storms often bring floods, and while there’s little we can do about heavy rain, there are some practical precautions to keep our homes safe and dry.

• Report any burst pipes to your municipality.
• Before the rainy season, check your gutters.
• Sandbags can help divert water around rather than through your home during heavy rains.
• Store any valuables high up to prevent damage.
• If your home floods, turn off electricity and avoid tap water.
• Flood water is dirty and can be toxic, so take care when cleaning up. Use gloves and disinfect surfaces.

3. Fires

The Western Cape has become known for wildfires in the summer, but any home can be at risk if fire safety isn’t followed. Here’s how you can reduce your risk:

• Make it a habit to inspect your appliances and outlets every six months or so for signs of wear. Set a reminder in your calendar so that you don’t forget.
• Don’t overload electrical sockets.
• Never leave a heater unattended or overnight.
• Keep a fire extinguisher at home so you can respond quickly before fires get out of hand.
• If you have solar panels on your roof, they need regular cleaning and inspection, especially after high winds or storms.

If you’re in the Western Cape in an area where you may need to evacuate, keep a go bag already packed with essentials. You’ll need copies of your ID document and drivers’ license, your qualifications, and insurance documents. Also pack car ownership papers and any other official documents that may be relevant. You’ll need a power bank to keep your phone charged, a first aid kit, essential medicine, and a change of clothes for each family member. Keep digital copies of critical documents on your phone so that it’s always accessible.

4. Burglary

Most South Africans already practice tight security. But over summer holidays our homes stand empty. If you’re not planning to get a house sitter, you can still keep your property safe:

• Let someone you trust know you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your home. Leave a set of keys with them so that your property can be accessed in an emergency.
• You can use smart bulbs or timers for your lights so that the home looks occupied at night.
• Check the locks on your doors and windows.
• Always set your alarm.

The role of insurance

While these preventative measures are crucial, some events are simply beyond our control. This is where the right insurance policy becomes a key part of your home protection plan.

In the unfortunate event of a fire, flood, or burglary, having comprehensive cover provides the financial relief needed to repair, rebuild, and replace your valued possessions. It helps turn a potential catastrophe into a manageable situation. We encourage you to review your current home contents and building insurance to ensure it aligns with your property's value and potential risks. Speaking to a financial adviser can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Protect your safe haven

Each season brings unique risks. While preparation is vital, it’s impossible to completely eliminate the threat of property damage or loss. Having the right home contents and building insurance provides peace of mind should anything go wrong. Review your cover annually with your financial adviser to ensure you remain fully protected.