It is the insured ’ s responsibility to ensure that , when putting in a pothole claim , the damage is not due to wear and tear . It is important to ensure that maintenance is done regularly .
Buildings
Common causes for claims are damage caused by rain and hailstorms . As much as these can , indeed , cause significant damage , one of the first questions an insurer will ask , is whether the property was properly maintained .
That is why you need insurance to provide you with cover should the unforeseen happen . It is equally important to read your policy carefully or establish from your insurance broker whether you are covered for these types of risks . Your broker has a responsibility to take you through the policy wording and schedule and ensure that you understand the finer details of the cover you are acquiring .
Just as is the case with a pothole claim where the owner of the vehicle must be able to prove that damage could not be attributed to a lack of maintenance , the same would apply when putting in a claim for building damage . So , when building maintenance is needed , it is advisable to procure the services of a professional service .
The insurance company may reject the claim if it can prove that damage to the car was resultant of wear and tear or if key parts of the building , the roof , for example , were not properly maintained before the storm for which a claim is submitted .
To conclude , short-term insurance is there for a reason , to protect your assets when the unforeseen – including bad weather – happens . Make sure that the policy you have , will cover you for all these events .
Werner Bosman
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