Year end preperation

11/20/2009 1:11:51 PM

This is that time of the year again – everyone is planning to spend some time away from home and last on their mind is their security and that of their assets.  When they realise that they have to attend to such matters it is normally almost too late as Underwriting companies are weary of individuals wishing to upgrade their packages over the high risk festive season only to have it reduced down again early in the new year.  Loadings and exclusions are therefore in the order of the day.

Some notes on what to do and what not to do:

To do:

1)     Ensure that your premiums are up to date – Insurances, security, AA membership, Tracking, etc.

2)     Revisit insured sums – motorised vehicles, household content, specified items/etc. 

3)     Ensure that your alarm is operational – test it as this record would be needed when you have a claim.

4)     Ensure that items normally covered under household now updated to “specified items” as they would be “away from the house now”.  Examples are

a)     Scuba/Diving Equipment

b)     Camping Equipment

c)     Golf Equipment

d)     Camera/Video/I-pod/etc.

e)     Bicycles plus accessories

f)      Trailer for quad bike/scrambler/etc.

g)     TV/DVD player/DSTV/etc.

h)     Jewellery

i)      Etc.

5)     Inform you neighbours about your plans and give them contact numbers (including that of your security/response company)

6)     Also ensure that you have contract details and contact numbers of all your service providers on hand at all times during your vacation.

7)     Ensure that your animals are cared for and that you have a “back up” plan.

8)     Ensure that your post and newspapers are collected or cancelled as they are telltale signs.

9)     Use day/night lights randomly inside and outside your house

10)  Switch of/unplug appliances to guard against power surge damage (lightning) and to save electricity.

Not to do:

1)     Belief that nothing would (can) happen to you – security village, etc.

2)     Your house and contents are safe and have always been

3)     That your insurances are in place because you have a broker who cares

4)     That your neighbours care

As always – prevention is better than cure.

Enjoy your vacation – you deserve it!