Winter Woes: Why Insurance Claims Spike in South Africa’s Cold Season
2025-06-10T09:00:00When the days get shorter and the air takes on that familiar chill, we all start
breaking out the blankets and heaters. But we’ve noticed something else that
arrives with the cold: a spike in insurance claims.
Every winter, claims for building, home contents and vehicle insurance tend to
rise. So why does the cosy season bring increased mishaps? Let’s unpack the
curious case of South African winters and what they mean for your cover.
Building Blues: Roofs, Rains and Bursts
Winter weather in South Africa is split down the middle. In Gauteng and beyond,
we get dry, chilly days. In the Western Cape? It’s three months of cold fronts,
downpours and howling winds. All that rain can turn a small roof leak into an
indoor waterfall, while strong winds can send tiles and debris flying. Last
year, intense winter storms around Cape Town caused flooding in over 35,000
homes — with roofs blown off, trees toppled, and streets transformed into
rivers. It’s no surprise that building insurance claims rise sharply during the
wet season.
Elsewhere, the cold can still cause trouble. Freezing nights can crack roof
tiles or burst pipes, especially in older homes. And when unexpected hail or
snow makes an appearance, we see even more pressure on property. In short,
winter puts your home’s structure to the test. A strong building insurance
policy is key to weathering the storm.
Contents at Risk: Fires, Blown Circuits and “Brrr-glars”
Staying warm in winter means heaters, fireplaces and sometimes candles, all of
which come with risk. Authorities warn that household fires and burn injuries
rise in the colder months. Cape Town alone recorded over 900 residential fires
during one winter season — many caused by unattended heat sources.
Fires don’t just damage the structure, they destroy furniture, appliances,
sentimental items, and everything in between. That’s where home contents
insurance steps in.
Another winter risk? Sudden power surges. Voltage spikes can fry appliances in
an instant — from TVs and fridges to laptops and routers. It’s worth checking
whether your contents policy includes cover for surge damage, and whether your
electronics are protected. A surge protector is a small investment that can
prevent a big “oops” later.
It’s not just the elements we guard against – it’s also opportunistic thieves.
Longer nights give burglars more cover to sneak around, earning them the chilly
nickname “brrr-glars”. Dark gardens, open windows, and unlit driveways are
common entry points. Outdoor items like gas bottles, tools or patio furniture
also become easy targets. Double-checking that your alarm is working and motion
sensor lights are active can help. So can ensuring your contents policy reflects
what’s in your home today — not what was there five years ago.
Vehicle Trouble: Slippery Roads and Frosty Fenders
Winter driving brings its own challenges: misty mornings, fogged-up windscreens
and, in some areas, black ice. In the Cape, rain-slick roads are common.
Upcountry, thick fog and early frost can turn a calm commute into a
white-knuckle trip.
Shorter daylight hours mean more of us are on the road in the dark — when
accidents are statistically more likely. Even sun glare can become a factor
during winter mornings and evenings, when the sun sits lower in the sky. Add to
that cold-weather car issues like reduced tyre pressure or batteries that just
won’t start, and it’s clear why motor insurance claims typically rise in winter.
The good news? Most of these issues are avoidable with a little prep. Check your
tyres, brakes, and wipers early in the season. Drive cautiously in bad weather
and make sure your policy includes the support you’d want on a cold roadside —
like towing or car hire cover.
Stay Safe and Covered This Winter
Our claims team knows winter tends to be busy — but a little preparation can go
a long way. Servicing heaters, checking gutters, locking up early and being
alert behind the wheel all help reduce the likelihood of having to claim.
Of course, even with the best planning, life happens. That’s why we’re here.
Now’s a great time to review your policies, update your cover, and speak to us
or your broker about any changes you’ve made to your home or vehicle setup.
Ready to winter-proof your peace of mind? We’re here to help. Reach out to our
team or your broker for a policy health check, and let’s make sure you’re fully
covered for the frosty season ahead: https://www.brytesa.com/contact-us
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