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Thatch-roofs face increasing insurance challenges

Insurance companies are increasingly leery of insuring thatch-roofed structures, says ASP Fire CEO, Michael van Niekerk. The danger posed by thatch in terms of fire risk was starkly illustrated recently when the Radisson Hotel in Hoedspruit was struck by lightning.

“The only factor preventing a disastrous fire was the presence of an intumescent coating on the thatch, but there was still significant water damage in putting the fire out,” he says.

Michael van Niekerk

“While thatch was great 10, 15, maybe 30 years ago, it has actually lost its flavour with insurance companies. My recommendation to clients is to replace it, as it just causes such a headache from a fire management and insurance perspective.”

Advancements in insulation materials and technology present more viable alternatives to control the temperature of a house or building. For example, a thatch-roofed structure can be covered with metal tiles to stop any fire from propagating. However, this will not prevent a fire from spreading inside.

Van Niekerk points out that both the outside and inside surfaces of thatch need to be protected by treating them every five years with a fire retardant and ensuring that the electrical supply is maintained properly.

While thatched structures are common in high-end game reserves, van Niekerk says that one client in this sector has decided to forego thatch due to the fire risk and insurance challenges. “The client simply considered it not viable as it also posed a business risk.”

Most commonly used for lapas, ASP Fire can assist to ensure that the construction and positioning of the structure is compliant. In addition, these can either be treated or isolated by means of a fire-rated protection system.

“We can inspect a thatch-roofed structure to determine whether or not it has been erected in accordance with the regulations,” adds van Niekerk. Recommendations will be made where the structure or buildings nearby do not comply fully.

“Proper planning is the secret to a cost-effective fire-prevention strategy for thatch-roofed structures. Involving a fire consultant at the outset means that compliance need not be costly in the long run. If you are unsure whether a thatch-roofed building is compliant, simply contact us,” concludes van Niekerk.

For more information, contact ASP Fire, +27 11 452 2169, [email protected], www.aspfire.co.za

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