OPINION ARTICLES

Loadshedding and Your Insurance

Loadshedding and Your Insurance

March 07, 2023

Opinion by Jaun Duvenage

Do you feel like you are in the dark when it comes to your insurance and loadshedding? You are not alone. Loadshedding has created significant challenges for households and businesses, including an increased risk of power surges, fires, and crime. Given the ongoing nature of our nation's electricity crisis, it's essential to take the necessary steps to prepare for power cuts and minimise potential damage.

Although loadshedding and blackouts are not typically insurable risks, it's possible to obtain coverage for damage resulting from power surges. However, the availability of such coverage will depend on the specific terms and conditions of your insurance contract. Therefore, it's crucial to review your policy to determine whether power surge protection is included, or available as an optional extra.

And while you are navigating the complexities of your short-term insurance and loadshedding, we found it pertinent to share a few related tips and steps that you can take to help prevent damage during loadshedding:

Read through your policy wording, or consult your broker, to ensure you have sufficient cover and that power surges are included in your insurance policy.

Make sure all your electronic devices and equipment are adequately covered, so that you can replace them if needed.

Unplug your appliances and equipment during loadshedding.

Install surge protectors.

Make sure your alarm system is in tip-top shape to avoid burglaries and related crime during power outages.

Consider investing in an UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply).

Remember that by taking the time to understand your insurance policy's coverage and limitations related to loadshedding and power surges, you can make informed decisions to protect your assets from potential damage. Don't let loadshedding catch you off guard - be proactive and ensure that you're adequately covered.

Please contact us if you would like to speak to one of our brokers. As always, we are here when you need us.