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May 22, 2025
A thatch roof brings a unique character to a home. Its natural scent, cooling qualities, and traditional charm are part of a lifestyle many value deeply. But with that character comes significant responsibilities and risks.
Reasons Why Thatch Roofing Is Considered High Risk to Insurers
Thatch roofs are naturally more vulnerable than other roof types. Fire is a major concern, particularly in dry seasons or areas with frequent lightning. Wildlife—especially baboons—can cause physical damage, and ongoing maintenance is not just advisable, but is required for your thatch insurance. Factors like your location, local infrastructure, and access to emergency services (such as a functioning fire department or an on-site firefighting team with water supply) all influence how insurers assess your risk.
When Applying for Insurance on a Thatch Structure, Insurers Typically Consider:
- Location: Proximity to flood zones, sinkholes, or other high-risk areas.
- Construction: Type and age of the materials—e.g., thatch, brick, or metal tiling.
- Use: Whether the property is residential, rented out, or used commercially.
- Hazards: Exposure to fire, lightning, theft, vandalism, and accidental damage.
- Fire Safety Measures: Availability of alarms, extinguishers, lightning conductors, and other firefighting appliances and equipment.
- Flood Risk: Proximity to rivers, dams, or other large bodies of water.
- Municipal Support: Distance to the nearest fire station and the reliability of local water pressure.
Thatch Owners Can Meet Insurers in the Middle
Many property owners opt to reduce their risk and premium by installing stone-coated metal tiles (like Harvey, MSR, or Metro) over the thatch. This approach can offer several benefits:
- *Reduced fire risk due to lower flammability.
- *Improved protection against animal damage.
- *Less frequent maintenance requirements.
- In some cases, insurers may offer reduced premiums, depending on their underwriting criteria.
Your thatch building is more than a structure—it may be part of your brand or your home’s identity. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps makes a real difference in how it’s insured and protected.
If you have questions or need more information, feel free to contact us on 0800 43 49 48 (Toll-Free) or email info@grib.co.za.
To Obtain a Thatch Insurance Quote, Prepare the Following:
- Name / Business Name
- Identity or passport number or company registration number
- Your location coordinates of the building/s
- The firefighting equipment or appliances on the premises
- The replacement value of each building including VAT (As well as demolition, debris removal, professional fees and adjustment for inflation during the rebuild)
- And please advise us of other structures that may not be thatch such as pools or buildings covered in tiles or IBR.
Contacts us here and we can get your thatch roof covered.
