Quick answer: If a flat roof is leaking, first prevent further damage and document the issue. Notify the managing agent or trustees, take photos, get a contractor report and check whether the cause is sudden storm damage or gradual maintenance failure. The body corporate policy may respond differently to roof repairs, resultant water damage and owner contents damage.
Immediate steps for owners
The priority is to limit further damage while keeping evidence for the trustees, insurer and any contractor.
- Take photos and videos of the leak and damage
- Move contents away from water where possible
- Report the leak to the managing agent or trustees immediately
- Do not throw away damaged items before photos are taken
Steps for trustees or managing agents
Trustees should establish the cause of the leak and whether urgent temporary repairs are needed to protect the building.
- Arrange an inspection by a suitable contractor
- Ask for a written cause-of-damage report
- Check whether other units or common property are affected
- Notify the broker if a claim may be possible
Insurance vs maintenance
Flat roofs often involve maintenance questions. Failed waterproofing, age-related deterioration or lack of maintenance may be handled differently from sudden storm or impact damage.
- Check wear-and-tear exclusions
- Check maintenance records
- Separate roof repair costs from resultant damage
- Confirm the applicable excess before promising payment
Owner contents and internal improvements
The body corporate policy may not cover an owner’s personal contents. Owners should also check their own household contents or personal insurance.
- Contents cover is usually arranged by the owner or tenant
- Internal improvements may need special attention
- Photos and invoices help support claims
- Trustees should avoid assuming everything is covered
Need help reviewing the insurance position?
Lowensvlei Insurance Brokers assists body corporates, trustees and managing agents across the Western Cape with body corporate insurance reviews, sectional title claims support, renewal checks and practical communication with owners.
Lowensvlei Insurance Brokers assists body corporates, trustees and managing agents across the Western Cape with body corporate insurance reviews, sectional title claims support, renewal checks and practical communication with owners.