Western National Insurance provides Covid-19 relief to clients

These are extraordinary times that require us all to work together. We are in unchartered territory and face a great deal of uncertainty as to the way forward, and no doubt we’ll continue to encounter many challenges. “At Western National Insurance, we believe that the challenges ahead can be overcome if insurers, brokers and clients work together,” says Jurgen Hellweg, CEO of Western National Insurance.

Western National Insurance is a niche commercial insurer specialising in providing total solutions for the small to medium size commercial and business market in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.

Our motto of “Rethink Insurance” has never been more relevant

“We do not believe that ‘one size fits all’ applies to the current challenges being experienced. Our action plan to provide some relief to clients will mostly centre around engaging with our brokers on a case by case basis, where individual solutions will be considered for those key clients who have been significantly impacted by Covid -19.  This will ensure a flexible and fluid approach to finding the best available solution for all of our clients,” Hellweg says.

Western has launched two specific interim initiatives to assist clients during these trying times.

Motor premium discount

Western will apply a 25% discount on all monthly motor premiums payable in May 2020. Cover will remain unaltered, and premiums will revert as normal from June 2020, subject to any individual actions applied on a case by case basis. “This discount is based on our calculated reduction in risk and exposure due to fewer vehicles being on the road during the lockdown period. We want to pass on this saving to our policyholders,” Hellweg adds.

Policy renewal relief

Western has also introduced a flat renewal on all qualifying policies that are up for renewal during the months May to July, with some qualifying criteria applicable to this initiative.

Western is not postponing the renewal increase for this period, but rather renewing on unaltered terms with the next renewal scheduled for the 2021 policy anniversary. It is very important for clients to still engage with their brokers during this renewal period, as any changes to their risk profiles must be addressed and noted on policies.

“Client engagement with brokers has never been more important and while Western will continue to act in the best interest of our clients, as an intermediated business, we rely strongly on our brokers’ input for the best results,” Hellweg concludes.