Make insurer helplines work for you during the holidays

With millions of South Africans about to go away for the holiday season, the last thing people think about is potential problems that could arise while they enjoy a well earned break.
 
Edward Gibbens, Santam's Executive Head of Broker Distribution urges brokers to remind clients of Santam's 24/7 emergency and claims service that will allow policyholders to register claims immediately at any time of the day or night.

The service offers quick processing of claims, happy customers and has eased the administrative load on insurance brokers.

"Many brokers worry that insurer hotlines might result in clients deciding to cut them out of the equation and insure directly.                                  

"But initiatives like Santams 24/7 emergency and claims service have been designed to ensure that we assist the broker in providing better service to our mutual clients. Our service provides roadside vehicle assistance and helps the claiming process along in the most consumer-friendly way.

"The service streamlines the claim process by getting the wheels in motion as soon as the phone rings.

"In the case of a burst water pipe or a car accident after hours, a claimant may be unable to reach their broker until the following day. By this time a third party, in the case of a car accident for example, may be unreachable, resulting in delayed claims.

"Santams 24/7 emergency and claims service can work quickly and effectively for policyholders and works in favour of both the insured and the broker."

 
In case of an emergency, Santam policyholders or brokers can contact Santams emergency and claims helpline on 0860 505 911.

Over the festive season, Santam also automatically increases the sum insured for household contents by 10%. This applies from 15 December 2006 until 31 January 2007.

"It's our way of giving our policyholders extra peace of mind over the holiday season and it won't cost them a cent", says Gibbens.