Quick answer: Before the rainy season, trustees should check both maintenance readiness and insurance readiness. Many water damage disputes arise because schemes only discover blocked gutters, failed waterproofing, roof defects or unclear excesses after heavy rain has already caused damage.
Maintenance checks
- Inspect roofs, valleys, gutters and downpipes.
- Check drains, stormwater channels and retaining walls.
- Review waterproofing problem areas and previous leak locations.
- Clear debris from common property drainage.
- Record inspection dates and contractor findings.
Insurance checks
- Review storm, water damage and roof-related policy terms.
- Check excesses for water damage, storm and resultant damage.
- Confirm claims notification requirements.
- Make sure replacement values and insured assets are current.
- Know who to contact after hours for emergencies.
Claims preparation
- Keep contractor contacts ready.
- Tell owners how to report leaks and storm damage.
- Take photos before and after emergency repairs.
- Keep invoices, reports and communication together.
- Notify the broker or insurer promptly where a claim may arise.
Communication with owners
- Explain that maintenance defects may not be insurance claims.
- Remind owners to protect their contents.
- Ask owners to report signs of damp or leaks early.
- Keep trustee decisions documented.
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, renewal checks, water damage claims, public liability, fidelity cover and trustee insurance support. Request an insurance review.
Lowensvlei Insurance Brokers assists body corporates, trustees and managing agents across the Western Cape with body corporate insurance reviews, renewal checks, water damage claims, public liability, fidelity cover and trustee insurance support. Request an insurance review.
This guide is general information for trustees, owners and managing agents. It is not legal advice. Always check the scheme rules, policy wording and current legislation before making final decisions.