Is your home safe and covered when you are away?

December in South Africa brings sunshine, road trips and festive spirit, but unfortunately, it also brings a spike in crime across the country, Maroba Maduma, executive for sales and distribution at BetterSure Financial Consultants, says.

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"With many families travelling, unoccupied homes become easy targets. Ensuring your home is protected while you are away is not just about locking the doors, it is about taking practical measures to ensure your belongings are safe."

Know your responsibilities as a homeowner

Homeowners often underestimate how much their own actions can influence the outcome of an insurance claim. Insurers require clients to take reasonable steps to protect their homes, Maduma says. "Leaving an alarm inactive or a window open can be seen as negligence, which could affect your claim.

"Reading your policy terms and conditions carefully before you leave is also essential because it helps you see what is covered, what is not and what your insurer expects."