17/06/2026
🌩️Storm Damage Claims: Insurance Covers the Unexpected – Not Lack of Maintenance
The recent severe storms that swept through the Garden Route and Cape Town have caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, roofs, boundary walls, gutters, and properties across the region. While many losses will be covered by insurance, an important factor that often affects claims is the overall condition and maintenance of the property prior to the loss.
🔷 Why This Matters
Insurance is designed to protect against sudden and unforeseen events, such as storms, hail, wind, and flooding. However, where damage is worsened by a lack of maintenance or existing deterioration, insurers may reduce or decline portions of a claim.
Examples may include:
✔️ Roof leaks caused by worn or deteriorated waterproofing.
✔️ Roof sheets, tiles, or flashing that were already loose or damaged before the storm.
✔️ Blocked gutters and downpipes causing water ingress into buildings.
✔️ Trees that were dead, diseased, or not properly maintained falling onto structures.
✔️ Boundary walls, retaining walls, or structures showing signs of cracking, movement, or deterioration before the weather event.
✔️ Damage resulting from long-term wear and tear rather than the storm itself.
🔷 A Good Time for a Property Health Check
With winter weather now upon us, property owners should consider:
🔹 Inspecting roofs, gutters, and downpipes.
🔹 Repairing loose tiles, roof sheets, and flashing.
🔹 Clearing gutters and drainage systems.
🔹 Trimming or removing potentially hazardous trees and branches.
🔹 Checking retaining walls and boundary walls for signs of movement or cracking.
🔹 Addressing any maintenance issues before they become costly claims problems.
🔷 Halcyon's Advice
The best claims are often the ones that never happen. Regular maintenance not only protects your property but also helps ensure that when an insured event occurs, there are no complications at claim stage. If you are unsure whether your buildings sum insured remains adequate, or if you would like guidance on storm-related risks and cover, our team is always available to assist.
🔹Tel 043 726 5321
🔹Email [email protected]
🔹www.halcyongroup.co.za