Quantity Surveying at IUM
Underinsurance and inadequate reinstatement values have been growing concerns within the insurance industry for over a decade. Many property sum insured values remain static at renewal or are often adjusted by the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rather than the Construction Materials Price Index (CMPI), which is typically higher. This discrepancy can lead to significant risks for brokers and their clients. Ensuring that a property is insured for the correct sum insured, rather than being underinsured, offers several key benefits:
For the Client:
- Full coverage for potential losses
- Avoidance of the average clause at claims stage
- Protection against inflation
- Compliance with loan requirements
For the Broker:
- Reduced legal liability and fewer Errors and Omissions (E&O) claims
- Enhanced credibility and professionalism
- Improved client relationships and retention
- Compliance with professional standards and regulations
To address these concerns, IUM has launched its in-house Quantity Surveying Department, providing a proactive approach to risk management and client protection. Properties with a sum insured value exceeding R350,000,000 (three hundred and fifty million rand) are eligible for a complimentary Value At Risk (VAR) assessment conducted by one of our certified quantity surveyors. This assessment includes a comprehensive property evaluation and the compilation of a detailed Bill of Quantities (BOQ).