Question NW423 to the Minister of Water and Sanitation
07 March 2024 - NW423
Myburgh, Mr NG to ask the Minister of Water and Sanitation
Whether he has found that the various water boards and entities that report directly to him have put adequate insurance plans in place to cover claims that might arise from damage to property and/or environmental damage caused by pipe breaks or other infrastructure failures; if not, what steps will he take to ensure that the water boards and entities put adequate insurance plans in place; if so, what (a) steps has his department taken to ensure that the water boards and entities meet their obligations when claims are lodged and (b) are the further details in this regard?
Reply:
All water boards have put in place adequate insurance to cover for claims that may arise due to loss or damage to infrastructure, namely Asset All Risk Policy. The policy covers all perils for material damages to the water boards assets inclusive of claims of pipe bursts that may occur; loss or damage to insured property as declared; material damage, property damage and business interruption; pipelines, plant and machinery.
a) In terms of (a) for claims lodged against the water board an insurance assessor is appointed to investigate the legitimacy of the claim including assessment of possible liability to the waterboard. The cover is subject to policy terms and conditions outlined in the policy of insurance of various water boards which are renewable annually.
b) Any losses or damage to insured property are attended to immediately to limit liability to 3rd parties.
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