Several property owners in Turflaagte affected by severe thunderstorms in Bloemfontein on Wednesday, 6 December, have no building insurance policy. They are desperate for any relief.
Premiums for building insurance would hamstring their already strained finances in addition to the rising cost of living due to high interest rates, electricity, and fuel.
The victims include those who managed to build homes themselves and beneficiaries of government-subsidised houses.
James Kumalo, Sello Moeng and George Mabote, had the roofs of their homes blown off.
“I spent about R70 000 on roof material, including labour, while the cost amounted to R500 000 in total to build my house,” said Mabote.
Kumalo and Moeng said they recently spent about R100 000 to complete renovations to their homes.
“I was happy that I completed my house and was looking forward to saving some money. I have to start afresh due to this unfortunate natural incident,” said Moeng.
Numerous affected people are poverty-stricken as they are unemployed, while some depend on state grants.
Qondile Khedama, spokesperson for the Mangaung Metro, said the recorded affected households stood at 147, adding a clear statement of affected people and aid required would be known this week. He confirmed that no people have been displaced.
