South Africans take their braais seriously. We’re not just talking about a grid over some bricks (although that works just fine)… We mean state-of-the-art ceramic domes, gas braais with multiple burners, handcrafted tongs, and meat thermometers that link to your phone. Add in all the outdoor furniture and accessories, and you’ve got yourself a very expensive setup sitting on your patio.
So, what happens if something goes wrong? Is your prized Weber or Cadac covered by your insurance? What if someone swipes your designer fire pit, or your built-in braai is damaged during a hailstorm?
Let’s break down how the king’s home, buildings, and even portable possessions insurance work harder than your coals to give you the sizzle that insures your favourite outdoor cooking setup.
The deal with home contents insurance
You know your moveable braai gear, like gas braais, portable smokers, tongs, rotisseries, and patio furniture? Well, these items can be insured as part of your home contents cover. It would be the same as covering the other (clearly less important) kinds of valuables that you’ve bought and purposefully put into your house so you can turn it into a home, like your couch or TV.
But there are a few important things to note:
- These items must be at your insured address.
If you lend your Weber to a friend and it’s damaged or stolen there, your policy won’t cover it. - If it’s not listed, it’s not covered.
Some high-value items need to be specified individually on your policy to be fully covered. If you’ve spent a small fortune on a luxury gas braai or imported stainless steel braai, it’s best to check with us if it needs to be listed on your schedule. - Cover for outdoor theft isn’t always automatic.
Home contents insurance may not include theft of items outside your house unless there’s visible forced entry. So, if your braai is left unsecured and someone makes off with it, your claim could be rejected.
When is building insurance the right option
This is pretty simple to answer. Basically, built-in braais and fixed patio structures are generally covered under your building’s insurance because they form part of your property. If a storm damages these structures or a fire breaks out, your building insurance should have your back.
Here’s what this includes:
- Brick or stone braais built into your patio.
- Thatched or tiled entertainment areas.
- Plumbing or gas lines built into the braai setup.
Tips to protect your prized braai gear
- Install motion-activated lights or cameras on your patio to deter theft.
- Secure portable items indoors when not in use. Especially at night.
- Keep receipts and take photos of your high-value equipment.
- Check your policy schedule to make sure your gear is correctly covered.
The king has your back and your braai.
Braaiing is a way of life in SA, and we’re here to protect the lifestyle you love. Whether you have a gas braai on your balcony or a wood-fired pizza oven in your garden, let’s make sure you’re covered.
Questions about what’s covered and where? Just WhatsApp us on 0860 50 50 50 or click here for a commitment-free quote.