Santam Ensures Policyholders over Blackout Damage

March 28 - Blackouts have unfortunately become a common part of the South African lifestyle. As a result, millions of households have had to adjust to the way they operate, as well as face new fears as criminals take advantage of the darkness and burgle houses. With lights and burglar alarms unable to work with no electricity, South Africa has become the common thief's playground.

One of the main questions on homeowners' minds is whether they will be covered for loss of property and damage if they are unfortunately the victims of a burglary. At least one insurance company, Santam, has come forward to reassure its policyholders that they will indeed be covered - as long as their alarm and back up battery systems were in working order at the time of the blackout.

The Head of Portfolio Management at Santam, Caroline da Silva, said that even if the backup batteries failed to work during a blackout, the house will still be insured.

Another issue that bothers policyholders is the damage caused to electrical appliances because of power cuts. Again, da Silva has an answer. "If the client has purchased accidental damage cover and a fridge or freezer is damaged as a result of a power surge or spike, then the damage to the unit will be covered," she said.

Other appliances were also discussed by Santam. "Computers will also be covered for power surges, if the client has bought all-risks cover for electronic equipment," said da Silva. "In addition, pool pumps and gate monitors that burn out as a result of a surge will also be covered if the client has specifically take out optional accidental insurance for these items."

Santam urged policyholders who were not sure of their coverage, to speak to a company representative.