FAQ
Good insurance starts with better questions.
Straight answers to the things people ask before choosing cover, renewing a policy or making a claim.
01 · Getting started
Start with the right conversation.
What does Cornerstone help with?
We help you identify the risks that matter, compare suitable insurance solutions, and understand the cover, terms and conditions before you choose. We also support you when it is time to claim.
Why use an insurance broker?
As an independent broker, we can access a range of insurance markets on your behalf. Our role is to understand your circumstances, explain the options clearly and help you choose cover that fits your risks.
How do I get started?
Tell us a little about yourself or your business and the risks you want to protect. We will ask the right questions, recommend next steps and prepare a tailored quotation for discussion.
02 · Personal insurance
Protect the things and people that matter.
Is my home insured for what it costs to rebuild?
Buildings cover should generally be based on the cost of rebuilding the structure, not its market value. Professional fees, demolition, removal of rubble and building-cost increases may also need to be considered.
What should I include in my home contents cover?
Home contents cover is designed for the belongings that make your home yours, such as furniture, appliances, clothing and electronics. A current inventory helps you set a realistic sum insured and makes a future claim easier.
Which belongings need to be specified away from home?
Portable valuables such as jewellery, cameras, laptops and mobile phones may need to be listed individually. Keep receipts, proof of ownership and up-to-date valuations for higher-value items.
What affects the cost of my car insurance?
The vehicle, how it is used, who drives it, where it is kept and the level of protection all matter. When comparing options, look at the premium, excess, value basis and policy conditions together.
What is gap cover?
Gap cover is intended to help with certain shortfalls between medical-aid rates and the costs charged by healthcare providers. Products differ, so limits, waiting periods and exclusions should be checked carefully alongside your medical-scheme benefits.
What should I consider before taking travel insurance?
Destination, trip length, planned activities and existing medical conditions can affect available cover. Ask specifically about medical emergencies, cancellation, baggage and any exclusions that apply to your plans.
03 · Business insurance
Keep the work moving.
What can business buildings cover include?
It can protect the physical structure of owned business premises, including permanent fixtures and fittings. The sum insured may need to allow for rebuilding costs, professional fees and related expenses.
How long could my business survive an interruption?
Business interruption cover can help recover insured losses such as lost gross revenue, gross profit or rental income, plus increased working costs. The indemnity period should reflect how long it would realistically take your business to recover.
What should I consider when insuring vehicles and fleets?
Vehicle type, drivers, routes, security, overnight parking and claims history can all affect the structure and cost. Stock and money can also be considered as separate business insurance sections.
What about machinery, computers and equipment?
Cover can be structured around the machinery, office contents, laptops, tablets and specialist electronic equipment your business relies on. We will help identify what is portable, what is essential and which risks need separate attention.
What is business liability insurance?
Liability cover is designed around legal liabilities that can arise from your business activities. The right section and limit depend on what you do, the contracts you enter into and the scale of a possible claim.
Do I need cover for goods while they are being transported?
Goods-in-transit cover may be appropriate when stock or other goods are exposed while moving between locations. Ownership, packaging, carrier, area of travel and the maximum value in one shipment all matter.
04 · Claims
Here when you need us.
What should I do when I need to claim?
Contact us as soon as reasonably possible so we can explain the next step and the information the insurer needs. Keep the relevant policy details, photographs, invoices, reports and other supporting documents safe.
Does having insurance guarantee a claim will be paid?
Claims are assessed against the specific policy wording, limits, excesses, conditions and exclusions. We can help you understand that process, but the insurer makes the final decision on the claim.
A note on cover
These answers are general guidance, not financial advice or a replacement for your policy wording. Cover, limits, excesses and exclusions vary by insurer and by your circumstances.