How to stay dry and secure by safeguarding your home from water damage

Like the rest of the world, South Africa's changing climate is creating numerous challenges for homeowners when it comes to protecting their property.

From rising damp to burst pipes, water damage can be costly and disruptive. We understand that some damage is out of your control, like flooding from a tropical storm. However, being proactive and having the right home insurance cover means you can safeguard your home as best you can.

Changing times and weather patterns

Gauteng's rainy season is usually from November to February, while the Western Cape sees heavy rainfall between May and August. These wetter months increase the risk of leaks, flooding, and drainage issues. However, we all know that weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, with intense storms and sudden downpours occurring more frequently. That's why it's important that you stay prepared throughout the year.

Loadshedding can also cause power surges that damage appliances like geysers, leading to flooding.

In some areas of the country, winter brings freezing temperatures that can cause pipes to burst. In addition, ongoing municipal maintenance or water supply cuts during droughts, can also lead to burst pipes or, if taps are left open, could lead to indoor flooding.

Proactively preventing water damage

Taking active steps to protect your home from water damage is important. Here are some simple tips:

• Clear gutters and drains: Regularly clear your gutters, downpipes and drainage systems to prevent blockages that can cause water to overflow.
• Check for leaks: Walk around your property to check for any leaks.
• Ventilate properly: Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens to prevent mould and damp, which can cause health risks and structural damage over time.
• Turn off taps when there's no water: Beware of water supply cuts in your area and turn off your taps before the water comes back on to avoid flooding.
• Protect geysers: Turn off geysers during power outages to prevent them from being damaged by a power surge. Consider hiring a qualified electrician to install surge protection on your distribution board.

Good to know: our Essential and Classic plans offer embedded power surge cover* up to a specified amount. The Purple Plan includes cover for the full amount insured.

Why having the right cover for your home is a must

Discovery Insure clients can take advantage of our Home Assist benefit . Available on the Essential, Classic, and Purple Plans, this service gives clients access to professional electricians, plumbers and locksmiths. The Home Assist benefit covers the call-out fee plus one hour of labour (excluding parts) for urgent repairs. This includes help for both main buildings and outbuildings, ensuring your entire property is covered.

You can also insure your geysers, pipes and water heating systems for wear and tear, rust, decay and faulty workmanship for an additional premium. This is automatically included on the Purple Plan.

The Online Vault offers all clients peace of mind with the protection of important documents. From proof of ownership to valuation certificates, this secure online storage solution ensures critical paperwork is protected from water damage and is easily accessible when you need it most.

Protecting your home from water damage requires awareness, preparation and the right support. By taking proactive steps and having access to Discovery Insure's value-added benefits, you can keep your home safe, dry and secure.

For more information, see the Discovery Insure Plan Guide .

*Discovery Insure offers an additional power surge buy up cover on the Essential and Classic plans.