Are you covered when the lights go out?

You need to know whether you’re covered against Theft, Damage and Power Surges during times of load shedding…

1. Am I covered against Theft and Burglary when we have no power?

• Your insurance policy will cover losses as a result of theft or burglary following or during a load shedding session/time, as long as your armed response provider is able to confirm that your alarm was activated and that there was a power/ electricity loss which disabled it. (Obviously this does not apply to policies that do not have an alarm warranty on their policy – if you are not sure please contact us to make sure).
• Most armed response companies have this reporting ability but it is important you confirm with your provider. At the same time it is very important to ensure that your alarm signal and battery in working order and is tested at least 4 time a year. Alarm batteries deteriorated faster than we would like, so have them checked.

2. Power Surge when power is turned back on

• When power is restored following an outage, there may be an electrical surge that can damage appliances and electronic goods. This can result in great cost and inconvenience. However, your insurance policy will cover damage as a result of power surge, but if there is no surge protection installed there will be an excess payable. Excesses vary according to your particular policy structure. Please call us to establish yours.

3. Surge damage while I am running my generator

• Generators tend to produce ‘unclean power’ I.e. The amount of power is inconsistent, rising or falling dependent on how much power you are drawing. As a result you can damage sensitive electronic equipment simply by running it on generator power. Are you covered? Yes, as long as the installer of your generator provides you with a compliance certificate confirming the installation conforms with regulated standards.