PROPERTY NEWS - Humidity's rising. Barometer's getting low. According to all sources, it's nearly rainy season for most of South Africa. And the sound of rain falling is something special - unless, of course, it's falling on your brand-new leather couch, or leaking through the ceilings and pouring down the walls.

This is not the time to be a leaf in the wind. There are several things you can do to make sure your assets are protected when storms hit, says Wynand van Vuuren, client experience partner at King Price Insurance.

• Get on top of your house

Like, literally. Check that your roof is rain-ready: no broken tiles or loose flashings, nails and screws. Waterproofing secure and not starting to crack or lift. Your roof is your first line of defence against the weather, so it's worth spending some time on it.

"If you live in a sectional title complex, chat to your body corporate or a trustee: your roof is common property and it's the complex's responsibility to maintain it," says Van Vuuren.

• It's all about the gutters

Make sure there are no leaves and debris stuck in your gutters - or they'll almost certainly overflow after the first proper rain, which could cause damage and rising damp in your walls, doors and windows. Also, be sure to check that your downpipes aren't clogged, and that they channel rainwater well away from the house.

• Check walls and ceilings

If you've got an existing damp problem, this is where it will show up - often in the form of mould. Don't underestimate mould: left untreated, apart from the damage it causes to your house, it can cause allergic reactions and illness. Make sure that you tackle the source of the mould, or it will simply come back.

• Keep your car safe and sound

The simplest way to avoid storms and hail damaging your car is to park it in your garage, or under a carport. If you don't have covered parking, you can use a car cover, or even a blanket, to protect the most exposed surfaces, like the windscreen and bonnet.

• Make sure your insurance meets your needs

In spite of your best efforts, storms and hail can damage your assets. Make sure you have the right insurance for your home and car, which can help cover any damages when storms strike unexpectedly. In short: prevention is better than cure. But when rainy season hits, make sure you're covered, one way or another!

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