Christelle Colman, CEO of Ami Underwriting Managers (Ami)

The recent powerful cold fronts battering the Western Cape have again put the spotlight on a common yet underestimated insurance risk, trees and their vulnerability to severe winds. While storms regularly capture headlines for floods and power outages, falling trees present a quieter but equally costly threat.

Christelle Colman, CEO of Ami Underwriting Managers (Ami) on behalf of Lombard Insurance Company, emphasises, "At Ami, we believe prevention is always better than cure. Offering upfront risk valuations ensures our policyholders fully understand their coverage before storms strike saving time, stress, and financial surprises."

Last week's storms saw wind gusts peaking at over 100 km/h in parts of Cape Town, bringing down countless trees onto vehicles, buildings, and roads. These events underline the importance of proactively managing tree-related risks for both insurers and policyholders.

Understanding the Insurance Impact

Fallen trees represent more than a minor inconvenience; they translate into significant financial consequences. Insurance claims frequently arise from property damage, vehicle damage, and personal injuries linked directly to trees uprooted during storms.

At Ami, we've observed a notable uptick in claims following severe weather involving trees, especially in urban and suburban areas where infrastructure is dense and large trees are common. These claims include not only structural damage but also consequential damages such as loss of income for businesses interrupted by road closures or power disruptions.

Why Some Trees Fail and Others Don’t

Not all trees pose the same level of risk. Several factors determine why some trees withstand storms while others succumb:

• Root Health: Trees weakened by root rot, inadequate soil conditions, or damage from construction activities are significantly more prone to toppling.
• Species Susceptibility: Certain species, such as willows, white pines, and cedars, are inherently less resilient in strong winds.
• Maintenance and Care: Proper pruning and deep, regular watering promote stronger roots and structure, enhancing a tree’s ability to resist wind.

Prevention: Practical Steps for Policyholders

Insurance, at its best, is a partnership between providers and policyholders. To mitigate the risk of storm-related tree damage, we encourage proactive care:

• Regular Maintenance: Have trees professionally inspected and pruned, particularly during their first decade. Removal of weak or dead branches significantly reduces damage potential.
• ‍Mind the Roots: Regular deep watering, slow and steady, is essential. Avoid over-mulching, which weakens roots by creating overly shallow growth.
• Professional Checks: If root issues are suspected, a root collar excavation by a qualified arborist can prevent a small issue from becoming catastrophic.

Insurance Implications and Clarity

Clear understanding of coverage is crucial. At Ami, transparency is fundamental, aligning with our proactive approach to risk management. Our standard building cover includes reasonable costs (up to R15,000) for proactively removing trees that pose a risk to insured property, as well as for removing fallen trees and repairing associated damage to buildings, fences, and driveways.

Christelle further highlights the importance of this transparency: "Transparency is not just about clear wording, it’s about building genuine trust. Clearly outlining coverage, especially in scenarios involving tree-related damage, is essential for ensuring policyholders feel confident and protected."

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Increased Risks

Storm frequency and intensity in regions like the Western Cape continue to rise, making proactive tree management increasingly important. With each storm, insurers reassess risk models, adjusting policy terms and premiums accordingly.

Christelle addresses the broader issue, stating, "As storms intensify due to climate change, proactive property maintenance and regular policy reviews become vital. Our mission atAmi is to equip clients with knowledge and practical tools to withstand the impacts of increasingly severe weather events."

At Ami, our goal is not merely to respond to claims but to actively support risk prevention. By sharing clear guidance and practical strategies, we aim to empower our clients and brokers to make informed decisions that protect their assets, livelihoods, and lives.

In the end, storms remind us of our vulnerabilities but also of the strength found in preparedness, clarity, and community support.