Get your mind on gutters this rainy season – Mutual & Federal

Why should you get your mind in the gutter ahead of this rainy season? Damage caused by blocked gutters could cost you thousands of Rands. Another reason is that when it comes to short-term insurance, most household insurance policies stipulate that you have an obligation to keep your property in good repair otherwise any damage could be deemed to be your fault.

“If damage is directly attributed to low standards of basic maintenance, your claim, or a portion thereof, could be rejected,” says Michael McCann, Regional Sales Manager for the Central Gauteng Regional Office at Mutual & Federal.

That’s why Mutual & Federal, one of South Africa’s leading short-term insurers, advises homeowners to ensure gutters are in good condition to avoid damage to the home. “Gutters should be checked twice a year, in Spring and Autumn, and cleared of all leaves and debris.”

While cleaning gutters, be careful not to drive the packed debris into the downspouts where it may become lodged. You should also check for corrosion, holes, dents, sagging and leaking.

“Now’s also a good idea to mark problem areas so you can spot them when you’re ready to repair.” Lastly, flush gutters with water after you’ve cleaned them. This will show whether they’re draining well or if they’re holding standing water, which causes many gutter problems.

“Also, when water pools in the gutters, mosquitoes breed, adding to your rainy season woes.”

Branches that rest on the roof need to be trimmed so they don’t dislodge tiles or damage gutters when they sway in heavy wind. Another way of telling whether there’s a problem with gutters is checking for peeling paint on the exterior walls of your house. That means the gutter is most likely clogged, causing the water to overflow and run down the back of the gutter.

“If gutters don’t direct the water coming off the roof efficiently, it can seep into and damage the overhang and the fascia board on which the gutters hang,” says Mc Cann. “This can result in thousands of Rands’ worth of damage – a cost you’ll have to carry unexpectedly should your claim not be paid out as a result of negligence on your part.”

“Why risk it? All it takes is a few precautions and periodic maintenance,” concludes Mc Cann. “That way you’ll keep problems under control and ensure a prompt claims settlement.”