Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Scratch and Dent Insurance FAQs

 

What is Scratch and Dent Insurance?

Scratch and Dent Insurance keeps your car in tip-top shape. Scratch and Dent Insurance keeps your car covered for the little dents and dings. Scratch and Dent Insurance covers minor scratches, scrapes, dents and even tar removal.

How does Scratch and Dent Insurance work?

Scratch and Dent Insurance keeps your car in tip-top shape. Scratch and Dent Insurance protects your car from those nasty surprises. Scratch and Dent Insurance ensures your car looks as good as it did when you drove it off the showroom floor. 

How much does Scratch and Dent Insurance cost?

You can get Scratch and Dent Insurance from as little as R120 per month. 

What is the waiting period for Scratch and Dent Insurance?

Scratch and Dent Insurance from Bidvest Insurance has a 90 day waiting period. You’ll need to have an active Scratch and Dent Insurance policy for 90 days before you can claim. If you take your car for inspection and send us the report, we will waive the waiting period.

Does Scratch and Dent Insurance cover pre-existing damage?

No. Unfortunately, Scratch and Dent Insurance does not cover pre-existing damage.

What is different about our Scratch and Dent Insurance?

Our Scratch and Dent Insurance stands out from other insurers! With our Scratch and Dent Insurance, there’s no limit on the size of the damage, or if the damage is on more than one panel.

Is it necessary to fix minor scratches and dents?

Yes, it is necessary to fix minor scratches and dents on your car. Scratches and dents make your car look unattractive, and can cause damage to your car. If you want your car to keep its resale value, you need to ensure your car has a Scratch and Dent Insurance.

Why do you need Scratch and Dent Insurance?

Scratch and Dent Insurance protects your car from minor scratches and dents. You can protect your wallet from unexpected expenses.

Where can I find Scratch and Dent Insurance reviews?

At Bidvest Insurance, we work to ensure we provide the highest level of customer service. We want every customer to be completely satisfied with their purchase.

Click here to read Scratch and Dent Insurance reviews.

How do I know if I qualify for Scratch and Dent Insurance?

Anyone can qualify for Scratch and Dent Insurance. All you need to do is be the proud owner of a car who wants to ensure their car is always in pristine condition. Scratch and Dent Insurance keeps your car looking as good as when it left the showroom floor. 

Get cover for the little dings that can cause a big dent in your budget.

What does Scratch and Dent Insurance cover?

Scratch and Dent Insurance covers minor scratches and dents on your car. With Scratch and Dent Insurance, you’re covered for:

• Minor Dents, scratches and chips.
• Tar Removal.
• Wheel Rim damage.
• Hail Damage.
• Windscreen chips.

Scratches and dents can do more harm than you think. Get Scratch and Dent Insurance now.

How do I claim for Scratch and Dent Insurance?

The process to claim for Scratch and Dent Insurance has never been easier. You can contact us here to notify us of the incident. Our Bidvest Insurance claims assessor will then guide you through the claims process.

Important things to remember:

• You must notify us within 60 days of the incident occurring.
• When you claim, we will take all damages into consideration and not selective damages.
• If the cost of the repair is more than the cover provided, we will allow you to pay in, up to a maximum of R1 000 incl. VAT towards the repair. Thereafter, the damage is deemed as major damage and will not be covered.
• There is no excess payable.

Is there an excess payable on Scratch and Dent Insurance claims?

With Scratch and Dent Insurance, you pay zero excess fees when you submit your claims.

Does a Scratch and Dent Insurance claim affect your no claims bonus and cash back rewards?

Scratch and Dent Insurance is completely separate from your Comprehensive Car Insurance policy. When you submit a claim, it won’t affect your no-claims bonus or cash-back rewards.

What other benefits does Scratch and Dent Insurance have?

• Tar Removal: You drive your car every day. Sometimes, tar build up can ruin your bodywork. We will pay up to R2,500 cover per claim for specified tar removal.
• Wheel Rim damage: Your rims can also get damaged. When you scrape your car along the pavement, your wheel rims can get scratched and damaged too. We will pay up to R2,500 to get your rims repaired.
• Hail Damage: When nature strikes, we cover you for specified repairs up to R2,500.
• Windscreen chips: A small stone or pebble could chip your windscreen. We will pay up to R2,500 per claim.

How much does it cost to repair minor scratches and dents?

A minor dent approximately the size of an R2 coin, could cost anything from R500 – R550 to repair. In areas that have suffered hail damage, you may be better off replacing an entire panel. This could range anywhere from R2,500 upwards.

Don’t wait for the dents to appear. Get Scratch and Dent Insurance now.

 

Mechanical Warranty FAQs

 

How much does a Mechanical Warranty cost?

With a Mechanical Warranty, we calculated your premium, based on your car’s model, age, and mileage.

What is the waiting period for a Mechanical Warranty?

A Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance has a 30 day waiting period. During this period, you will not be able to submit a claim for your Mechanical Warranty policy. 

Does a Mechanical Warranty policy cover pre-existing damages?

No. Unfortunately, a Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance does not cover pre-existing damage.

​​How do I know if I qualify for a Mechanical Warranty?

Anyone can qualify for a Mechanical Warranty. All you need to do is own a roadworthy car in South Africa.

Why do I need a Mechanical Warranty?

You need a Mechanical Warranty to protect you from eye-watering repair bills. A Mechanical Warranty protects you from mechanical or electrical breakdowns.

How does a Mechanical Warranty work?

A Mechanical Warranty gives you cover for mechanical or electrical breakdowns. Warranties offset the repair and labour costs when these inevitable breakdowns happen.

How do I claim on a Mechanical Warranty policy?

You can contact Bidvest Insurance here to notify us of the incident. Our Bidvest Insurance claims assessor will then guide you through the claims process.

Does Mechanical Warranty cover both new and used cars?

Yes, a Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance covers new cars and used cars. We provide tailor-made car Warranty policies for all cars. 

What does a Mechanical Warranty policy cover?

A Mechanical Warranty covers a wide range of mechanical and electrical issues. These include:

• Engine components.
• Gearboxes.
• Steering mechanisms. 
• Suspension systems.
• Braking systems.
• Fuel systems.

For a full list of covered components and parts, read here.

What other benefits do I get with a Mechanical Warranty?

Roadside Assistance:

• Towing.
• Changing of flat tyres.
• Flat battery assistance.
• Locksmith for locked key retrieval.
• Car hire.
• Hotel accommodation.

Medical Assistance:

• Telephonic medical advice.
• Emergency medical transportation.
• Inter-facility transportation.
• Medical repatriation.
• Escort of minors.
• In-hospital medical monitoring.
• Compassionate visits.

Where can I find Mechanical Warranty reviews?

At Bidvest Insurance, we work to ensure we provide the highest level of customer service. We want every customer to be completely satisfied with their purchase.

Click here to read Mechanical Warranty reviews.

What is the difference between a Mechanical Warranty and a service plan?

A Mechanical Warranty and a service plan are two completely different things. People often confuse a Mechanical Warranty and a service plan.

Mechanical Warranty

A Mechanical Warranty is an insurance policy. A Mechanical Warranty covers you for when a mechanical or electrical breakdown occurs. A Mechanical Warranty offsets repair costs when a mechanical or electrical breakdown occurs. A Mechanical Warranty protects you against the breakdown of a host of components in your car.

Service Plan

A service plan is a type of plan that pays for your car’s services. Service plans usually cover the most basic car care items. Service plans often include things like oil changes and filter replacements.  A service plan is completely separate from a Manufacturer’s or Mechanical Warranty.

Bidvest Insurance does not sell service plans. We provide a variety of Warranty products for cars of various ages and kilometres.

What is a Mechanical Warranty? 

A Mechanical Warranty ​​offsets high repair costs when your car breaks down. This policy protects you when your car experiences a mechanical or electrical failure. 

With Mechanical Warranty from Bidvest Insurance, you get cover for:

• Mechanical and electrical breakdowns: Cover for repairs your car may need as a result of a mechanical or electrical breakdown.
• Cover for vehicles of various ages and mileages: Whether your car is new or old, we’ll still provide you with the cover you need.
• 24 Hour roadside and medical assistance: Breakdowns are unexpected. We provide roadside and medical assistance 24 hours a day.
• Optional Warranty: We provide car Warranty policies for all cars. Whether they’re still covered by an original manufacturing warranty, or not.

Is a car battery covered under a Mechanical Warranty policy?

Your car battery is not covered under a Mechanical Warranty policy. A Mechanical Warranty policy does not cover normal wear and tear deterioration. Your car battery is susceptible to normal wear and tear and is, therefore, not covered. 

Are brake discs covered under a Mechanical Warranty policy?

No, a Mechanical Warranty does not cover brake discs. A Mechanical Warranty does provide some cover range of brake components, including:

• Master cylinder.
• Wheel cylinders.
• Callipers.
• Servo unit.
• Anti-lock braking system activator.
• Vacuum pump.

 

Tyre and Rim Insurance FAQs

 

What is Tyre and Rim Insurance?

Your Tyres and Rims are vulnerable to the conditions of South African roads. Tyre and Rim Insurance covers you for accidental tyre and rim damage caused by road hazards. There are many road hazards on South African roads, including: 

• Potholes
• Glass
• Debris.

What does Tyre and Rim Insurance cover?

Tyre and Rim Insurance is a necessary purchase for every car owner. With all the hazards on South African roads, you’ll want to ensure your Tyres and Rims are covered. Tyre and Rim Insurance from Bidvest Insurance covers:

• Tyres: Replacement or repairs.
• Rims: We pay up to R750 towards the repair or replacement of your damaged rims.
• Annual Wheel Balancing & Alignment: After 12 months, we pay for the balancing and alignment of your wheels.
• Tyre Maintenance Inspection: After 6 months, we pay for a Tyre Maintenance Inspection to assess your tyres.

*Policy limits apply.

What does Tyre and Rim Insurance not cover?

Tyre and Rim Insurance by Bidvest Insurance cover damage caused by road hazards. This means that you are not covered for:

• Any pre-existing damage.
• Any cosmetic damage on the tyre or rim.
• More than two irreparable tyres in one incident.
• Bubbles or bulges.
• Damages caused during a car accident or malicious damage, and not by a road hazard on the public road.
• Repairs that have not been authorised or completed at an authorised repairer.
• Wear and tear.
• And others*

*For a full list of policy exclusions, please contact us or review your Bidvest Insurance Policy for further details.

Does Tyre and Rim Insurance cover tyre wear and tear?

No, Tyre Insurance from Bidvest Insurance does not cover tyre wear and tear. Tyre and Rim Insurance protects your tyres and rims from damage caused by hazards.

Why do I need Tyre and Rim Insurance?

You need Tyre and Rim Insurance to protect your tyres and rims from damage. South African roads are littered with potholes and other dangers. These can cause major damage to your car’s tyres and rims. You don’t want to break your budget because you didn’t see that pothole. 

With Tyre and Rim Insurance, you can avoid claiming on your Comprehensive Insurance.

How much does Tyre and Rim Insurance cost?

At Bidvest Insurance, we have four levels of Tyre and Rim Insurance cover for you to choose from. We cover all tyres and rims fitted to your car, including your spare tyre.

Cover option prices per month:

• Up to R 1 000 (per tyre): R89.
• Up to R 2 000 (per tyre): R109.
• Up to R 3 000 (per tyre): R189.
• Up to R 4 000 (per tyre): R259.

What is the waiting period for Tyre and Rim Insurance?

Tyre and Rim Insurance from Bidvest Insurance has a 30 day waiting period. You must wait 30 days after your first successful premium payment before you can claim. During this waiting period, you will not be able to submit a claim for your Tyre and Rim Insurance policy.

Do I need to pay an excess on my Tyre and Rim and Insurance claims?

With Bidvest Insurance, you pay zero excess fees when you submit a claim on your Tyre and Rim Insurance.

Are tyre replacements included in Tyre and Rim Insurance?

Yes, tyre replacements are included in your Tyre and Rim Insurance policy. Tyre and Rim Insurance covers both repairable and irreparable damage to your tyres. Bidvest Insurance will pay for tyre replacements should the damage be irreparable.

How do I know if I qualify for Tyre and Rim Insurance?

Anyone can qualify for Tyre and Rim Insurance. All you need to do is own a roadworthy car in South Africa. Tyre and Rim Insurance safeguards your wheels against South African roads.

Tyre and Rim Insurance is something that every car owner should invest in. There are many dangers that exist on South African roads. You want to ensure that your tyres and rims are covered in the event of damage from a road hazard. 

How do I claim for Tyre and Rim Insurance?

The process to claim for Tyre and Rim Insurance has never been easier. You can contact us here to notify us of the incident. Our Bidvest Insurance claims assessor will then guide you through the claims process.

Important things to remember:

• You must notify us within 30 days of the incident occurring.
• You may claim for up to 2 irreparable tyres in one incident, for up to 2 incidents per year.
• You may claim for up to 2 damaged rims in one incident, for up to 2 incidents per year.
• Any costs over the cover amount chosen, will be for your own account.
• Your tyre claim will be based on the remaining tread depth and the cover option chosen.

Where can I find Tyre and Rim Insurance reviews?

At Bidvest Insurance, we work to ensure we provide the highest level of customer service. We want every customer to be completely satisfied with their purchase.

Click here to read Tyre and Rim Insurance reviews.

Does Tyre and Rim Insurance cover pre-existing damage?

No. Unfortunately, Tyre and Rim Insurance does not cover pre-existing damage. 

What are the benefits of Tyre and Rim Insurance?

Tyre and Rim Insurance keeps your car and your wallet safe from many of the dangers on South African roads. The benefits of Tyre and Rim Insurance include:

• Cover for replacement tyres.
• Specified rim repairs.
• Wheel alignment.
• Wheel balancing.
• Unlimited puncture repairs.

Can tyres and rims be insured?

Your tyres and rims can be insured, with Tyre and Rim Insurance from Bidvest Insurance. 

Even the most cautious drivers are affected by poor road conditions and potholes. Don’t wait for your tyres or rims to endure unexpected damages. 

Get Tyre and Rim Insurance from Bidvest Insurance today. 

Why is Tyre and Rim Insurance important?

The reality is that the roads we travel on daily are not always in the best condition. Suffering tyre damage could happen at any time and needs to be dealt with immediately. With Tyre and Rim Insurance, these unexpected expenses are covered.

 

Cyber Insurance FAQs

 

What is Cyber Insurance?

Cyber Insurance protects you from financial loss caused by a cyberattack.

What does Cyber Insurance cover?

Cyber Insurance covers a wide range of losses caused by a cyberattack. These include cover for:

• Cybertheft: When your money is stolen by a cyberattack.
• Cyber deception: When you’re a victim of cyber trickery or a cyber scam.
• Device restoration: If your device has been hacked, we make sure all the threats are removed.
• Cyber liability: Legal assistance when you’re accused of causing a cyber threat
• Cyberbullying: Legal advice and mediation for if you become a victim of cyberbullying.

Why do I need Cyber Insurance?

No one wants to lose money from a cyberattack. Cybercriminals don’t only target large companies. They also target regular people. Why? Because they’re easy targets. 

Have you ever considered that you could be a victim of a cyberattack? From a surprise virus email containing malware to hurtful cyberbullying on social media. The threats you and your loved ones face in today’s digital world are real. You need Cyber Insurance to keep you and your loved ones safe.

How much does Cyber Insurance cost?

You can get Cyber Insurance from as little as R129 per month. 

What is the waiting period for Cyber Insurance?

With Cyber Insurance from Bidvest Insurance, there is no waiting period. Your policy is active from the inception date. You may use your benefits after your first successful premium collection.

Do I need to pay an excess on my Cyber Insurance claims?

With Cyber Insurance, you pay zero excess fees when you submit your claims.

How do I claim for Cyber Insurance?

The process to claim for Cyber Insurance is simple. You can contact us here to notify us of the incident. Our Bidvest Insurance claims assessor will then guide you through the claims process.

Important things to remember:

• It is essential that you inform us as soon as you are aware of an incident.
• All claims must be reported no later than 30 days of the incident, or as soon as reasonably possible.
• We will advise you of all the documentation required. Should the required documents not be received within 14 days after the request, your claim may be rejected.

What is required of me for Cyber Insurance?

With Cyber Insurance from Bidvest Insurance, you are required to:

• Keep the Operating Systems on your devices updated within 60 days of the latest security update release.

• Keep up to an Anti-Virus installed on your devices. Then Antivirus must be updated within 60 days of the latest security update release.

Can Cyber Insurance protect against all types of cyberattacks?

No. Cyber Insurance cannot protect against all possible threats. Cyber Insurance can provide coverage for many types of cyberattacks.  It’s important to implement strong security measures on all your devices. These include firewalls and encryptions to minimise the risk of a cyberattack.

What is a data breach?

A data breach is the unauthorised access to and release of sensitive information. This information includes personal data or financial information.

What is phishing?

Phishing is a type of attack where the attacker disguises themselves as a trustworthy entity to steal information. This information often includes:

• Usernames.
• Passwords.
• Credit card numbers.
• Other personal data of the victim.

Phishing is a serious threat to personal and financial security. Phishing can be harmful if not detected or prevented.

What is malware?

Malware is a type of software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorised access to a computer system.

 

Legal Insurance FAQs

 

What is Legal Insurance?

Legal Insurance is a type of insurance policy that gives you cover for your legal expenses. Legal Insurance covers a range of personal legal issues, both planned and unforeseen. 

What does Legal Insurance cover?

Legal Insurance gives you cover for legal expenses by providing you with access to:

• Unlimited legal advice.
• Unlimited mediation services.
• Unlimited legal matters.
• Bail cover.
• A selection of other legal benefits.

Why do I need Legal Insurance?

Legal services in South Africa are expensive. You never know when you may face some form of legal dispute. This is why most people don’t budget for legal services. Having legal protection is vital. You never know when you may need legal help. With Bidvest Insurance, you have the best legal practitioners at your disposal. 

Legal Insurance gives you instant access to legal professionals in all areas of law. You can protect yourself and your family’s rights at an affordable monthly price.

How much does Legal Insurance cost?

Our Legal Insurance cover options start from as little as R109 per month for Essential Cover. 

What scope of law does Legal Insurance cover?

Legal Insurance provides legal protection across a wide range of legal matters. These include:

• Civil matters: The legal rights and responsibilities that determine how you should behave in your relationships with other people.
• Family matters: The legal practice that focuses on the issues involving families.
• Criminal matters: The legal practice that involves all matters surrounding crimes or illegal offences.
• Labour matters: The legal practice that regulates standards for working conditions and wages.

What are the benefits of Legal Insurance?

The benefits of Legal Insurance include:

• Legal advice line.
• Litigation cover.
• Divorce cover.
• Mediation cover.
• Bail cover.

Value added benefits:

• Discounts on property transfer fees.
• Retrenchment cover.
• Drafting of Wills.
• Tax advice.
• Antenuptial agreements.

How do I claim from Legal Insurance?

When you need to claim or get some advice, you can call our dedicated hotline 0861 114 095. You can also email legalangel@bidvestinsurance.co.za. Our legal specialists will assist you through the process from the initial call. We will also draft contracts and assist you in court if needed.

What is the waiting period for Legal Insurance?

Your policy is active from the inception date and after the waiting period has expired. This is calculated from your first successful premium collection. The following waiting periods apply:

• Litigation cover: 3 months.
• Opposed divorce matters: 6 months.
• Bail cover: 1 month.
• Mediation services: 1 month.
• Legal advice/bail assist line: none.
• Legal document library: 1 month.
• Property transfer discounts: 1 month.
• Retrenchment: 1 month.
• Drafting of Wills: 1 month.
• Tax assistance: 1 month.
• Antenuptial agreement: 3 months.

Does Legal Insurance cover pre-existing legal matters?

No, Legal Insurance does not cover pre-existing legal matters. You will be liable for the costs associated with any pre-existing legal matters.

 

Panic Alert Insurance FAQs

 

What is Panic Alert Insurance?

Anyone can be affected by violent crime in South Africa. Panic Alert from Bidvest Insurance protects you when you need it most. Panic Alert is an emergency alert mechanism that can be activated in the event of a trigger incident. The Panic Alert App provides emergency response wherever you are in South Africa.

What is a trigger incident?

There are four main types of trigger incidents which Panic Alert gives you cover for:

• Armed robbery.
• Assault.
• Mugging.
• Sexual assault.

Why do I need Panic Alert Insurance?

You could be a victim of an armed robbery, mugging or assault. The sad reality is that some of your valuables may be taken. That’s where Panic Alert goes one step further to ensure these valuables are replaced.

With the Panic Alert App, you have a panic button in your pocket to avoid unfortunate events. Panic Alert is always there for you.

What does Panic Alert Insurance cover?

Should you be a victim of an armed robbery, mugging or assault, there are many things that can be lost. Your money shouldn’t be one of them. Panic Alert covers you for the following:

• 24-Hour armed response: If you’re ever in a dangerous situation and feel threatened, you can press the panic button on your Panic Alert mobile App.

• Emergency courtesy transport: If you’re involved in a trigger incident while driving home from work. Panic Alert will help with emergency courtesy transport to get you safely home.

• Home keys and remote: Losing your keys is an inconvenience. We cover key and remote replacements.

• Emergency medical assistance: We provide emergency medical assistance after an incident has occurred.

• Trauma counselling: Some incidents can be traumatic. Panic Alert gives you access to professional help through trauma counselling.
• Portable electronics: We cover portable devices, including smart watches, tablets and earphones.
• Bags cover: There are many valuable items we keep in our bags. With Panic Alert, your gym bag, laptop bag, tog bag and even your handbag are covered. 

• Personal documents cover: Your identity document, drivers licence or passport could be stolen. The cost of replacing these other personal documents can be costly. Panic Alert helps you with the cost of replacing personal documents.

Why is Panic Alert Insurance important?

Keeping yourself safe in a country with one of the highest crime rates in the world may seem impossible. At Bidvest Insurance, we’re determined to make safety more of a reality. Our Panic Alert Insurance is one another step closer to making sure you’re safe every day, every time.

How much does Panic Alert Insurance cost?

Our Panic Alert cover options start from as little as R99 per month for an individual. You can also add additional dependents to your cover for only R69 per month.

What is the waiting period for Panic Alert Insurance?

With Panic Alert, there is no waiting period. ​​Your policy is active from the inception date. You may use your benefits after your first successful premium payment.

How do I claim for Panic Alert Insurance?

You can contact us on 0861 272 777 or email panicclaims@bidvestinsurance.co.za to notify us of the incident. The claims assessor will then guide you through the claims process.

Important things to remember:

• The incident must be reported to the SAPS within 48 hours of the event occurring
• All claims must be reported as soon as reasonably possible, and no later than 30 days from the date of the incident.