The Fire Act (Act 101 of 1998) makes it clear: every landowner or tenant must take reasonable steps to prevent and fight veld fires. This includes:
- Maintaining firebreaks on all boundaries (unless exempted)
- Having firefighting equipment and protective clothing suited to local risks
- Acting immediately to contain fires and notify your FPA, municipality, police, insurers, and neighbours
Ignoring these obligations can leave you liable for damages if a fire starts on or spreads from your land.
Why FPA Membership Matters for Insurance
If you are not a member of a Fire Protection Association (FPA), the law assumes you were negligent in the event of a fire, and you must prove otherwise. For insurers, this increases your risk profile, often leading to higher premiums or reduced cover.
As an FPA member, the burden of proof shifts: the claimant must prove your negligence, making successful claims against you far less likely. Insurers may even offer:
- Lower premiums
- Reduced excess payments
- Wider cover options
FPA membership doesn’t just help you fight fires. It protects your claims position and strengthens your financial security.
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