We’ve seen it time and time again—many clients only discover gaps in their insurance cover when it’s too late. A stolen car, a fried TV, or a delayed claim due to missing paperwork; all of which can bring financial strain as well as unnecessary stress and frustration.
That’s why we encourage a proactive approach to insurance. It’s the smarter, safer way to protect your assets, time, and peace of mind. And it’s how we work at Barker – always by your side, helping you prepare for life’s what-ifs before they become “oh no” moments.
Why proactive beats reactive – every time!
Being proactive with your insurance means more than just paying your premiums. It’s about regularly checking your cover, staying updated with your security devices, and knowing what to do in an emergency. It can save you money. It can save you time. It can save your sanity.
On the other hand, being reactive means scrambling after a disaster, often when it’s already too late. The result? Delayed claims, longer turnaround times, and out-of-pocket expenses that could have been avoided.
Here are a few practical ways to stay ahead, with Barker by your side every step of the way.
1. Track your tracker – don’t lose your vehicle before you even start the claim
One of the most common oversights is assuming your vehicle tracker is active – until you need it and find out the battery is dead or the device is outdated.
We’ve partnered with Beame and Matrix to ensure clients are aware of the condition of their tracking devices. Remember:
No working tracker = no theft cover
If your policy requires a tracker for theft cover and it’s not operational, your claim can be rejected.
What to do:
Download the tracking app from Beame iOS, Android, or Huawei.
Make sure your vehicle details are correct on both your policy and the app. This helps speed up recovery efforts.
Barker ensures all vehicles are fitted with a recovery or tracking device, but it’s your responsibility to check that it’s working.
2. Surges happen – but they don’t need to fry your finances
Lightning and power surges are a reality in South Africa’s stormy seasons. The good news is that Barker waives surge and lightning excesses for clients who have a 40kA or higher surge protector fitted.
Here’s how to stay protected:
Check your main distribution board. If you don’t see a surge protector, contact us to arrange your complimentary Barker surge arrestor (For details - click here)
Already have one? Please check it! If it’s blown, arrange a replacement.
3. Roadworthy = claim-worthy
Whether you’re commuting in traffic or heading out for a weekend escape, road conditions in South Africa are unpredictable. Add load-shedding and faulty traffic lights, and you’ve got a recipe for accidents.
To stay on the safe side:
Check your tyres, brakes, and lights regularly.
A vehicle that’s not roadworthy can complicate or even invalidate your claim.
A little preventative maintenance now beats a significant headache later.
4. Let’s catch up – Barker’s complimentary insurance review
Think of us as your insurance dentist. It’s smart to check in once a year, even if nothing’s wrong. Book an in-person or virtual review with your Barker Private or Commercial Consultant.
We’ll help you:
Ensure your policy is up to date
Check for gaps in cover
Make sure you have the right cover is in place
This review is free, easy to schedule, and offers serious peace of mind.
In addition, Barkers does an automatic annual review across all policies – checking vehicle values and adjusting values to cater for inflationary increases.
5. Don’t forget your valuables – especially at events or while travelling
Concerts. Festivals. Family holidays. South Africans are always on the move, and that means your valuables are too.
Make sure items like phones, cameras, watches, golf clubs, bicycles, and personal luggage are correctly specified and covered.
With Barker, it’s quick and easy to update your policy, and even easier to file a claim if you’ve taken the right steps beforehand.
6. Help us help you – the claims process, simplified
We want your claims experience to be as smooth as possible. That means we need a little help from your side.
Here’s how to keep things moving:
For non-motor claims:
Read our initial claims notification email carefully. It lists everything you need.
Submit your damage report from a supplier, outlining the cause and whether the item can be repaired.
Don’t dispose of damaged goods until we say so. We’ll arrange collection.
Remember: Maintenance-related damage is not covered.
For motor claims:
Notify us immediately, even if there’s no visible damage.
Gather evidence: photos, witness info, and SAPS case number.
Report the accident within 24 hours at a police station or on the eNatis website.
Never admit fault or negotiate excess payments with third parties.
Keep a record of all interactions.
If your vehicle is stolen or hijacked and has a Beame or MX3 device, report it via the app or by calling 0860 232 631as soon as possible.
Good risk management = Cash Back Bonus
There’s one more reason to stay on top of your insurance: you get rewarded! Barker clients with a claim free year qualify for our Barker Cash Back Bonus. That means less stress, more savings, and even more reason to stay proactive.
Let Barker be your proactive partner
We’re not here just to sell policies. We’re here to help you live confidently, knowing your insurance works for you, not against you, when things go wrong.
So don’t wait for disaster to strike before checking your cover or updating your details. Let’s get ahead of the curve together.
Get in touch with your Barker consultant today to review your cover, check your trackers, or order your free surge protector.