Johannesburg - Just as many Johannesburg commuters won't forget the chaos caused by flooding at Gillooly's Interchange in 2016, KwaZulu-Natal residents will remember last year's devastating storm damage for a long time to come.
Momentum Short-term Insurance Head of Operations Vickey Swanevelder says these events, and others like them, are reminders of how extreme weather events can cause chaos and disrupt people's lives.
"While nobody wants to see these types of events repeated, South Africans can prepare for the unexpected."
The majority of the country is currently experiencing the rainy season and while many South Africans may be hoping for greener gardens, bumper crops and improved dam levels, there is the possibility that too much rain will result in significant damage to property or vehicles.
Of course, South Africans cannot control weather patterns. They can, however put maintenance plans in place. "Even with adequate maintenance, catastrophic weather events can be highly stressful and disruptive. That's why we have compiled some tips to help South Africans reduce possible damage to their valuables," says Swanevelder.
Insure your valuables
Momentum is committed to helping South Africans protect their valuables. "Making sure valuables are insured is the logical first step to offsetting any unpleasant surprises in the event of a flood or other catastrophic weather event," suggests Swanevelder.
Keep gutters and drains clear
Check gutters and drains regularly to ensure they are not blocked with debris. If they are not kept clear of blockages, they can clog up during the rainy season and prevent water from flowing freely, which could cause damage to property.
Repair leaks
Keep an eye out for damp on walls and ceilings. This may be the result of a faulty geyser, a leaking pipe or a missing roof tile. It is best to call a professional to assess the damage and get it repaired as soon as possible. Water damage that is not dealt with quickly can lead to a collapsed wall or roof.
Attend to wall and floor cracks
While some wall and floor cracks may seem superficial, if left unattended, they may cause major damage to the home. Also make sure the appropriate paint and sealers are used to protect the house's exterior from severe weather conditions.
Keep car tyres in good condition
Check your car's tyre treads regularly and replace them when necessary. Worn tyres do not allow for enough traction, especially when roads are wet. If the tread on the tyre isn't deep enough to hold a match-stick, then it's time for a replacement.
Reduce speed on the roads
South African roads are notorious for accidents. It is more important to reduce speed and maintain safe following distance during wet conditions, thereby ensuring your safety and that of other road users.
Get Momentum's app
Make life easier by using the Momentum app to claim for hail and windscreen damage to vehicles. These are processed quickly for existing clients and require no interaction with a call centre adviser.