Your home is more than just a structure; it’s a sanctuary, a place where memories are made and cherished. 

Two lady expert brokers explain options to protect your property. Accidents and disasters can strike when you least expect them – in holiday homes and residencies. From fires to burglaries, the unexpected can leave you reeling. “That’s where comprehensive house insurance steps in, providing the financial safety net you need to recover from such unforeseen events”, say Nilufar Manalla and Irene Nnko, two young expert insurance brokers from Dar Es Salaam. With their company Cizass they assist in finding the right insurance and are at a client’s side in the case of a claim. 

For THE FUMBA TIMES they outline how to get vital protection, and how much it costs. In Fumba Town property insurance is obligatory. 

Don’t gamble with your home No one plans for a disaster, but having house insurance means you’re prepared. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a fierce storm, the cost of repairs can be daunting. With a proper insurance, you’ll have the funds to fix or replace damaged property, from the walls to your beloved vintage record collection. 

House insurance isn’t just about the physical structure—it also covers your furniture, appliances, electronics, and personal belongings. So, in the unfortunate event of a break-in, theft or vandalism, you won’t be left empty-handed. As a rule, to insure structure is less expensive than content. 

Liability counts! 

Always check if liability coverage is included in your house insurance. Accidents can happen even within the safety of your home. If a visitor is injured on your property due to negligence or unsafe conditions, you could be held legally responsible. But its not just about visitors— your neighbours are covered too. If a tree on your property decides to do a somersault and damages their house, liability coverage can come to your rescue. ”It creates harmony among neighbours”, says Manalla. 

It all sounds comforting, but there are also possible “traps” to watch out for. How fast will the insurance pay out in case of a damage or loss? “Tanzania has improved in that matter”, the brokers know from experience. “Within one to three weeks in most cases one gets at least an acknowledgment by the insurance of a first settlement.” If clients want to fix a damage such as a broken window by themselves, “they get reimbursed”, the broker says. 

The most uncomfortable “trap”, however, is the so-called deductible, the amount an insured person has to pay himself or herself in case of damage “It is often 5,000 dollars or ten per cent of a claim”, the brokers point out. Their advice: one should look at these clauses at the beginning and choose an insurance accordingly. There are 27 registered insurances in Tanzania, among them Sanlam, Alliance and Jubilee. By law, all insurances need to be re-insured; there is also a public ombudsman in case of a disagreement.