Winter-proof your home and office this season

As extreme weather events become more commonplace in South Africa, so our historically mild winters have evolved into more eventful seasons, with increasing storms characterised by strong winds and flooding.

Securing areas at your home or business premises that are vulnerable to adverse weather could be the difference between a warm and cosy winter, and unfortunate damage that leaves you cold.

Check your roof

If you live in the Northern, Western or Eastern Cape, the winter storms with their gale force winds can present a serious hazard. It's imperative that you check your roof before the season starts, paying careful attention to fastenings and the state of support structures, like wooden or metal poles.

Cut back overhanging tree branches

Low-hanging branches can easily break off and fall onto structures during storms, causing damage. During high wind events branches can also damage walls and windows, and unprotected vehicles. Cut branches back away from homes and offices, and check the gutters beneath or around overhanging branches for fallen leaves to be removed. Blocked gutters can contribute to roof leaks.

Insulate exposed pipes

As temperatures plummet, especially in the interior, pipes risk freezing and bursting. Check your roof, garage and any crawl spaces for pipes that need insulating. Also make sure you know where to turn off the water mains to your home or office in the event of a pipe burst.

Inspect heating systems

Whether you're using a fireplace, gas heater, electric heaters, air conditioners or, in your office, central heating, it's important to check that all systems are still working optimally. It's been a year since this equipment was last used, and it's possible that wear and tear has taken its toll while not in use. If you have smoke detectors in your home or office, now is a good time to test them.

Protect against power surges

Although loadshedding has been suspended in recent months, winter tends to be the time of increased loadshedding, and general outages as a result of poor weather. Unplug vulnerable equipment like TVs, routers and computers to prevent damage from power surges during adverse weather or loadshedding.

Check alternative power supplies

If you haven't been using gas bottles or generators lately, with the suspended loadshedding and relatively stable national power grid, don't forget to check that these and other alternative power supplies are still in good working order. Faulty gas, solar or generator back-up power systems can cause serious damage. If you're considering installing an alternative power system, make sure you only use an accredited installer. Incorrect installations that result in damage could render insurance claims invalid.

This is also a good time to check your home or office insurance inventory, especially if it has changed since last winter.

New furniture, new appliances and new equipment must all be noted in your updated inventory to ensure you're not underinsured should you need to lodge an insurance claim this winter.