SASRIA – Your Business’s Secret Weapon in a Crisis

It’s all fun and games… until someone sets fire to a warehouse.

South Africans are no strangers to unexpected disruptions. From load-shedding to looting, we’ve learned to expect the unexpected—and plan for it. That’s where SASRIA comes in.

SASRIA (South African Special Risks Insurance Association) is like the secret superhero of the insurance world. It’s the only insurer in South Africa that provides cover for special risks like civil unrest, strikes, riots, and public disorder. Think of it as the backup plan for your backup plan.

Remember July 2021? The KZN riots caused an estimated R50 billion in damages. That week, entire shopping centres were flattened, businesses torched, and supply chains wrecked. Many business owners feared they’d never recover. But thanks to SASRIA, over 80% of those insured were able to rebuild. Claims were paid. Jobs were saved. Lights went back on.

The beauty of SASRIA is that it’s not some complicated standalone policy. It’s an add-on to your regular insurance, usually for a very affordable premium. And when the unexpected does strike (and we know in Mzansi, it can), you’re not left alone to pick up the pieces.

Here’s what SASRIA typically covers:

  • Loss or damage to property caused by riots, strikes, or public unrest
  • Looting during civil commotion
  • Business interruption following a SASRIA event

And no, it doesn’t just apply to big corporates. Whether you run a salon in Soweto, a takeaway in Tzaneen, or a tyre shop in Durban, SASRIA is there for you too.

At Howdie, we always encourage our clients to check whether SASRIA cover is included in their policies. It’s a small tick-box with massive implications.

In unpredictable times, SASRIA isn’t a luxury. It’s a lifeline.

And to the women rebuilding, reimagining, and rerouting their businesses every day—especially as we enter Women’s Month—know that Howdie’s got your back, come what may.

#RiskReady #SASRIA #HowdieHuddle #WomensMonth #BusinessResilience

Sasria Rate Adjustment for Specific Classes of Business

Kindly note that the relevant classes of business which have been affected by the rate increases have been updated effective renewal 01/10/2025 – SASRIA rates increase documents below.