As the effects of climate change become more
evident, heavier storms are experienced.
Summer is approaching, and so traditionally does South Africa’s
annual rainfall frequency.
As the effects of climate change become more evident, heavier
storms are experienced.
Regardless of the season,
the onus is on the homeowner or policyholder to review their policy at least
every six months.
A homeowner must ensure that the updated policy conditions are
read and understood and that the renewal terms, including the sum insured and
premium, are relative to the current replacement value of the property insured.
Home maintenance obligations are indicated in brochures and in
the policy renewal, and with the onset of summer, now is a good time to review
the condition of your home.
TIPS ON BETTER HOME MAINTENANCE
Gutters
• Clean your gutters. During winter, gutters, drains and valleys
can become clogged by leaves, which prevent water from flowing freely. Overflow
can result in water entering the roof, causing internal damages to ceilings and
other internal structures.
Roofs
• As temperatures fall and rise, metal roofs expand and contract, loosening
screws and washers. These need replacement at least twice a year. Joins and
laps between roof sheets also need to be resealed for protection against rust.
• Tiled or slate roofs are prone to loose or missing tiles. Ridge tiles should
be secured and any cracked or missing tiles need to be repaired or replaced.
• Flat roofs need sealants checked on a regular basis.
• Thatched roofs need to be replaced every 10 to 20 years, depending on the
weather and general roof wear and tear. It is important to install a lightning
conductor and cover the thatch with fire protection liquid. Thatch also needs
combing every two years.
Pools
• Pool maintenance includes the replacement of sand filters as often
as is required, but generally at least once annually or bi-annually depending
on pool size and climate.
• Pool lining should be checked frequently for cracks or bubbling as this is a
sign that the fibre lining is starting to delaminate.
• Filter the pool for at least eight hours a day in summer.
Pipes and water outlets
• Check for bubbling paint internally and externally, as this is a clear sign
of dampness caused by a leaking pipe or a rise in the underlying water table.
This can also be caused by water ponding against a wall.
• Structural cracking may also be attributed to leaking pipes. Identifying
these can prevent substantial damage to your property.
• Inspect your waste pipes and taps at least once a year to ensure they are
properly sealed and watertight.
• Check exposed pipes for signs of rust or wear and tear, and address those
issues immediately.
• Signs of mould or damage caused by mould require the use of professional
services to identify the cause, and to rectify the problem.
Annual maintenance
• The installation of a timer on your pool pump and geyser, or insulation of
your geyser will save a significant amount of electricity. Set the geyser
thermostat at 60°C, and not higher.
• Unplug unused appliances and chargers, as these still consume electricity,
says the Energy Saving Trust.
• Have a professional clean and sweep your chimney to remove blockages.
• Check windows and doors for deterioration.
• Regularly inspect windows and walls. Repair cracks or leaks as soon as
possible to prevent further deterioration.
• Watch water consumption. If you see a sudden spike in your water bill usage,
contract a plumber or the municipality to investigate. It may be as a result of
an underground burst pipe or leak.
Although insurers are unable to check maintenance on all
properties insured, it is emphasised in the renewal correspondence that the
home owner is responsible to ensure ongoing maintenance.
Policy holders are urged to read their Policy documents carefully.
Article featured in
Bedfordview and Edenvale news
Written by Natasha Osman ABSA