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Take It Easy

ARTICLE BY

  • Johanni Jennings
  • Head
  • Auto&General

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Risk mitigation is about helping your clients prepare for potential risks before they occur, allowing them to enjoy a worry-free holiday season. As financial advisers, this proactive approach helps build trust, strengthens relationships, and enhances the overall client experience. Help your clients relax this holiday season with these tips.

As a financial adviser, building long-lasting client relationships also involves guiding clients on practical strategies that reduce the risk of unexpected events. Holidays, in particular, are when clients may face heightened exposure to risk, whether at home, at their businesses, or on the road. If you can help protect their assets and reduce potential insurance claims, you can strengthen your relationships and differentiate your services from competitors.

Risk mitigation involves identifying, assessing, and implementing strategies to reduce the likelihood of unforeseen events or lessen their impact. While insurance plays a crucial role in transferring and managing risk, many events can be completely avoided with proper preventative measures. Here are tips to help your clients prepare for the holiday season….

  1. Water damage prevention: stay dry this holiday
    Heavy rains can cause considerable damage to properties. Prevention is far more affordable than dealing with repairs, so encourage your clients to take precautions.
    Gutter maintenance: Ensure gutters are clean and free of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water buildup, which can lead to leaks, mold, and even structural damage.
    Roof inspection: Leaks from missing or damaged shingles, or gaps around vent pipes and chimneys can cause serious issues. Advise clients to hire an expert to inspect and repair any damage. They can spot leaks early by keeping an eye out for water stains or discoloured patches on ceilings and walls and by paying attention to musty odours.
    Landscaping: Improper grading around a property can cause water to pool and weaken the foundation, leading to costly repairs. Clients should ensure proper drainage around their homes.
  2. Securing the home: keep burglars at bay
    Holidays often mean empty premises, making them prime targets for burglaries. Whether or not clients have a security system, there are steps they should take to safeguard their property.
    Install or upgrade security systems: CCTV cameras, electric fencing, and reliable alarm systems are all great deterrents. Motion-detecting lights can also help by illuminating dark areas and deterring intruders.
    Preparations before leaving: Test the alarm system, inform the security company of holiday plans and make sure that the alarm system is activated before leaving. Unplug electrical appliances (except for the fridge) to prevent fire risks and power surges. Lock all windows, doors, and security gates, and consider leaving a light on to give the impression the premises are occupied. Ask a trusted neighbour or family member to do a regular check on the property while you’re away.
  3. Road safety
    Many clients will travel over the holidays, and vehicle-related incidents are common. Ensure your clients are prepared by recommending these road safety tips.
    Vehicle maintenance: Clients should check the pressure and alignment of all tyres, ensure their wiper blades are working, and test their headlights for visibility. Also, remind them to check oil, water, and coolant levels.
    Roadside assistance: Highlight the importance of having access to roadside assistance in case of emergencies. Our Auto&General App is a good example, as it’s equipped to detect a crash, and then inform emergency services in the case of the client being incapacitated.
  4. Protecting small businesses: holiday security essentials
    Businesses are at a particular risk during the holiday season. Increased foot traffic and cash flow or empty premises can make them targets for theft.
    Cash handling procedures: Encourage clients to use safes with drop mechanisms and schedule varying times for cash pick-ups or deposits.
    Visible security cameras and guards, and silent alarms: can deter theft and ensure a quick response in the event of an incident.
    Employee training: Make sure staff members know what to do in case of an emergency and have access to a list of emergency contact numbers.


Finally, as much as prevention is key, some incidents are unavoidable. Ensure your clients review their insurance coverage to ensure they are adequately protected before they go on leave.

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