Protect your home: why 2026 demands smarter solutions for South African homeowners

South Africa is stepping into 2026 with a hint of economic relief, but for homeowners, the pressure is still very real. Interest rates may ease slightly, but rising living costs mean many households are stretched thin.

For most of us, a home isn’t just a roof over our head; it’s often the biggest investment we’ll ever make. That’s why protecting it is no longer optional; it’s essential.

“One in three homes in South Africa is underinsured, which is a major risk going into 2026,” says Regard Budler, CEO of BetterSure Financial Consultants.

“Smart digital tools that provide property insights can help homeowners protect and grow the value of their homes. In a tough economic climate, empowering households with the right tools is one of the most meaningful ways we can help protect household wealth.”

The problem is that many South Africans aren’t as protected as they think. Around two-thirds of homeowners do not have any home insurance, often because premiums feel unaffordable or insurance is simply seen as optional.

Even when homes are insured, building inflation has outpaced policy updates, leaving many underinsured. When disaster strikes, payouts can fall far short of actual rebuilding costs: hundreds of thousands, sometimes millions, of rands out of pocket.

And disasters are no longer rare. Floods, hailstorms, fires, severe storms and droughts are hitting multiple provinces each year, with KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape and the Western Cape among the hardest hit.

The 2022 KZN floods alone caused billions of rands in damage and destroyed thousands of homes. Experts warn that these events are only becoming more frequent and severe.

Insurance costs vary depending on property value and location. Monthly premiums for an R1 million home can range from R200 to R600, while more valuable homes can cost over R1 000 a month.

For many families, that’s a tough ask, which is why digital tools and AI are becoming a lifeline. From instant quotes to online policy management and AI-assisted claims, these tools make coverage easier to understand, faster to manage and more engaging.

Estate planning is another area homeowners often overlook. Around 70% of South Africans don’t have a valid will. Without one, property transfers can be delayed, legal disputes can arise, and estates can lose value through administrative costs.

Technology is now simplifying the process, making it easier to secure your home for your family’s future.

Affordability, accessibility and risk awareness are the keys to smarter protection in 2026. Home wellness, proactive maintenance and digital insights can reduce damage, claims and even premium hikes.

Bottom line: check your cover, consider technology, and make sure your home, your biggest investment, is truly protected.