Fleet Risk Management: Scam Awareness
June 11, 2026

Civil Unrest & SASRIA Cover

Civil Unrest in South Africa: The Importance of SASRIA Cover

Over the past few years, South African businesses have been reminded that civil unrest can happen with little warning. While many companies invest in comprehensive insurance, they often overlook one of the most important forms of protection available: Sasria cover. Whether you own a transport company, warehouse, retail store, manufacturing business or office premises, reviewing your Sasria protection should be part of your regular insurance review.

What is Sasria?

Sasria SOC Ltd is South Africa's specialist insurer that provides cover for losses resulting from:
  • Riots
  • Strikes
  • Public disorder
  • Civil commotion
  • Terrorism
  • Public violence
These events are generally excluded under standard commercial insurance policies, making Sasria an essential addition to your insurance portfolio.

The July 2021 Civil Unrest – A Real Reminder

The July 2021 unrest in KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng was one of the largest insured loss events in South African history. Thousands of businesses were looted, vandalised and destroyed. Warehouses, shopping centres, factories, distribution facilities and commercial vehicles suffered extensive damage.
Sasria ultimately received claims exceeding R32 billion, helping thousands of insured businesses begin rebuilding their operations. Government support and additional capital ensured that valid claims continued to be honoured, allowing many companies to recover that may otherwise have faced permanent closure. For many businesses, Sasria wasn't simply another insurance policy—it became the difference between reopening and shutting their doors permanently.

Don't Overlook the Imminent Danger Security Costs Extension

Many business owners are unaware that Sasria includes an Imminent Danger Security Costs Extension on Material Damage and Contract Works policies.
Where there is an imminent threat of riots or public disorder, this extension may cover reasonable preventative security costs incurred to protect insured property, subject to the policy terms, conditions and applicable limits.
Examples could include:
  • Temporary additional security personnel
  • Emergency protective measures
  • Other reasonable preventative costs aimed at reducing potential damage
This valuable benefit can assist businesses in taking proactive steps before damage occurs.

Additional Protection for Larger Businesses

Sasria has also reintroduced its Wrap Cover (Excess of Loss) product for businesses with higher-value risks.
The product provides:
  • Up to R500 million in additional excess-of-loss protection above Sasria's primary cover
  • Additional protection for businesses with large property values or significant business interruption exposure
  • Increased insurance capacity for corporate and commercial risks exposed to civil unrest, riots, strikes, public disorder and terrorism

Final Thoughts

No business owner can predict when civil unrest may occur, but every business can prepare for it. The events of 2021 demonstrated just how quickly businesses can suffer significant losses from riots and public disorder. Having the correct Sasria cover in place—and ensuring your sums insured are accurate—can make a substantial difference when recovering from an unexpected event. If you're unsure whether your business has adequate Sasria protection, now is the right time to review your policy with an experienced broker.