Ah, South African summer. 1 minute you’re braaing in the sun, and the next the sky has turned black, and your garden chairs are doing gymnastics across the lawn. Our summer storms don’t come to play. Between lightning, hail, flooding and the occasional flying trampoline, your home takes a real beating.
But here’s the good news. With a bit of prep and a dollop of common sense, you can protect your castle before the clouds start growling.
Check your roof before the rain does
Your roof is the first line of defence and also the first thing storms like to bully. A single loose tile can turn into a waterfall feature you definitely didn’t have any plans on installing. Unless you did actually want a pool in your lounge, we suggest giving your roof a once over.
A professional is best, but if you’re strapped for cash then what you’re looking out for are cracked tiles, lifted sheets or gaps where water can sneak in. If you have a flat roof, make sure the drains are not clogged with leaves, birds’ nests or the mysterious debris nobody remembers putting there.
While you’re at it, check your ceilings for brown spots. Those aren’t decorations… They are warnings.
Keep your gutters clean
Gutters are the unsung heroes of storm season, when they’re working properly, that is. The problem is, we don’t tend to notice them until they aren’t doing what they’re supposed to. If your gutters aren’t clear and able to function, you could find yourself with a mini waterfall pouring down your walls and a flooded garden.
What you’re aiming to do here is to clear out leaves and dirt so water can flow freely and make sure that the downpipes are pointing away from your foundation. Water sitting around your house is basically an invitation for damp and structural issues to move in and never leave.
Trim your trees (like a responsible adult)
Overhanging branches look nice and leafy until the wind turns them into medieval weapons. Cut back any trees that hang over your roof, your car, your windows or your neighbours power lines, because all it takes is just 1 big branch to launch itself onto your valuables and you’ll be in for thousands of rands worth of damage.
Plus, your neighbour will appreciate not having to braai in the dark because your avocado tree took out their electricity.
Secure loose outdoor items
If it can move, the wind will move it. Garden chairs, trampolines, umbrellas, pot plants, kiddie pools and even your dogs favourite outdoor bed can all take flight. You should probably, if you haven’t already, take a look around your yard and ask yourself a simple question:
Could this object become airborne and ruin my life Keep the loose items stored, weighted or secured?
Your windows will thank you for being honest and making a plan to keep those items secure before they turn into the reason your neighbour’s kids start believing in UFOs.
Protect your electronics from lightning
South African lightning doesn’t arrive quietly. It really commits, and a single strike can take out televisions, routers, fridges and anything plugged in at the time.
The fix is simple: Use surge protectors. They are affordable, can save you a hefty amount of money, and when a storm starts rolling in, all you have to do is unplug the fancy things. Yes, even the beloved flat screen.
Check your home insurance before the storms arrive
The best time to check your cover is before you need it. Make sure your policy includes storm and flood damage, roof leaks, lightning strikes and damage to outbuildings.
If you have upgraded your home recently or added expensive new items, update your insured amounts. Underinsurance during storm season is like bringing a water pistol to a flood. It will not end well.
If you aren’t sure what you’re covered for, chat to our royal consultants. We’ll tell you exactly what’s included so you aren’t left guessing when the rain gets dramatic.
The king’s best storm advice
Summer storms in South Africa are loud, proud and unstoppable. But the damage they cause doesn’t have to be. A few small checks like clearing gutters, securing outdoor items, trimming trees and protecting electronics can save you a lot of stress and money.
And remember, the king is here to cover your castle. With home insurance that protects you from storm damage, lightning and unexpected chaos, you can weather the season with confidence.
Want our royal protection for your home? WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50 or click here for a commitment free quote.
