Looking after the roof over your head

With Winter approaching, meaning dry weather for most of the country, this is the time to pay attention to roof maintenance to ensure your roof is ready for the next rainy season.

Your insurance policy doesn’t cover losses that are attributable to: normal wear and tear, gradual deterioration, damage over an extended period as well as lack of maintenance-related damage to your buildings’ roof or to other parts of the property if the roof was not correctly maintained. In general, Insurance does not cover maintenance related damages!

Insurers are firming up their stance on this front and we are seeing a number of claims being rejected due to one or more of the above causes. Influenced by climate change, weather related damages and claims, especially from storms and flooding have increased drastically both in frequency and severity.

Taking reactive measures when the stormy season arrives, is often too late, and will not stop preventable damages from occurring. We therefore strongly suggest that you undertake proper roof maintenance during the dry season to avoid disappointment at claims stage. Being Pro-active will go a long way in avoiding this problem.

9 Roof Maintenance Tips for you:

1. Thoroughly inspect roof shingles each season

2. Apply treatment for Moss, Lichen, and Algae annually

3. Clean and maintain gutters, downpipes and connecting drains

4. Remove leaves and debris from your roof on a regular basis

5. Trim tree branches hanging near your roofline or touching the building.

6. Replace the caulk around flashings and paint roof as required.

7. Understand the impact of sun exposure on your roof and waterproofing and keep up with waterproofing maintenance.

8. Have trusted experts perform all maintenance and repairs and give you the right advice.

9. Have your roof inspected on a reasonably regular basis. This will help identify areas where tiles may have shifted and where sheets are lifting.

Should you have any questions or would like to understand more, contact a GIB Client Executive.

At GIB Insurance Brokers (Pty) LTD, we are you partners not only in Insurance but also in helping you better manage your risks. As part of this we are keeping you informed about general risk management, how your Insurance works and key factors to be aware of.