Key Takeaways
- Coverage: Up to R2,500 per incident for minor damage at R139 per month.
- Top-up provision: You can contribute up to R1,000 towards repairs exceeding your policy limit.
- No excess: Zero excess payable on all covered claims.
- Major damage threshold: Damage exceeding policy limit plus R1,000 top-up is considered major damage.
When you invest in Scratch and Dent Insurance from Bidvest Insurance, you’re making a smart choice to protect your vehicle. Like all insurance policies, however, there are specific limits that determine what’s covered. Understanding these limits ensures you make informed claims and get the most value from your coverage.
What are Policy Limits?
Policy limits are the maximum amounts your insurer will pay for covered claims during a specific period. In Scratch and Dent Insurance, these limits apply to different types of damage and help keep premiums affordable whilst providing meaningful protection for minor vehicle damage.
For Bidvest Insurance’s Scratch and Dent policies, the coverage limits are clearly defined and vary depending on which option you choose. These limits ensure that the policy remains focused on its intended purpose: covering minor cosmetic damage rather than major repairs.
Understanding Your Coverage Options
Bidvest Insurance’s Scratch and Dent Insurance provides up to R2,500 coverage for:
- Minor dents, scratches, chips, and hail damage.
- Wheel rim damage (one claim per year).
- Tar removal.
This option also includes windscreen chip repairs (chip repairs only) and costs R139 per month.
When Policy Limits Come Into Play
Understanding when and how policy limits apply is crucial for managing expectations. Here are key scenarios where limits matter:
The R1,000 Top-Up Rule
One unique feature of Bidvest Insurance’s Scratch and Dent policy is the R1,000 top-up provision. If repair costs exceed your policy limit, you can contribute up to R1,000 towards the repair. Beyond this threshold, the damage is considered major and falls outside the policy’s limits. This means if your repair costs R3,000, you’d pay R500 out of pocket, and the insurer covers R2,500.
Multiple Claims and Annual Limits
Some benefits have specific annual limits. Wheel rim damage coverage, for example, is limited to one claim per year. This helps prevent misuse whilst ensuring you’re protected when genuine accidents occur.
What Happens When Limits Are Exceeded
When damage costs exceed your policy limits plus the R1,000 top-up allowance, it’s classified as major damage. In these cases, you’d need to rely on your Comprehensive Car Insurance to cover the repairs.
This distinction is important because Scratch and Dent Insurance is specifically designed for minor cosmetic damage. Major damage typically involves structural issues, or extensive repairs that go beyond simple cosmetic fixes.
Maximising Your Policy Benefits
To get the most from your Scratch and Dent Insurance policy limits:
- Report damage promptly: You have 60 days to notify Bidvest Insurance of any incident. Early reporting ensures you don’t miss the window for claims.
- Understand what’s covered: Focus on minor cosmetic damage like scratches, small dents, and chips. Pre-existing damage and major damage aren’t covered.
- Use authorised repairers: Repairs must be completed at authorised facilities to qualify for coverage.
Planning Around Your Policy Limits
Understanding your policy limits helps you make informed decisions about repairs and claims. For minor damage within your limits, claiming through Scratch and Dent Insurance makes perfect sense. For borderline cases, calculate whether using the top-up provision offers better value than paying out of pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The R1,000 Top-Up Mandatory if Repairs Exceed my Limit?
No, the top-up is optional. You can choose to pay out of pocket for repairs exceeding your limit or claim through your comprehensive insurance if the damage qualifies.
Do Policy Limits Apply Per Year or Per Incident?
Policy limits apply per incident with a limit of up to 1 claims per year for Wheel Rim damges.
What Qualifies as “Major Damage” Beyond Policy Limits?
Major damage typically involves structural issues, damage to multiple panels, or repairs that exceed your policy limit plus the R1,000 top-up allowance.
Understanding your Scratch and Dent Insurance policy limits empowers you to make informed decisions about your coverage and claims. Knowing how limits work ensures you maximise your benefits. With no excess payable and simple claims processes, Bidvest Insurance’s Scratch and Dent coverage provides excellent value within its defined limits.
Remember to report incidents within 60 days and use authorised repairers. With proper understanding of your policy limits, you can keep your vehicle looking pristine without unexpected repair costs.
