When You Can and Can’t Claim Damages from City Power in Joburg 2025

Power surges in Joburg: Can you claim from City Power in 2025?

It’s a scene far too familiar for Joburgers: the lights cut out, then come back with a bang, frying your fridge, TV, or Wi-Fi router. While the frustration is real, the question remains, can you claim for the damage from City Power?

The short answer is yes, but only if you can prove they were at fault.

Here’s what has changed in 2025, when you’re eligible to claim, and what could get your claim rejected.

Also read: The Top 5 Inverter Myths Costing South Africans Money in 2025

When you can claim damages from City Power

1. Proven negligence by City Power

If a power surge or outage was caused by City Power’s failure to maintain infrastructure, you may be entitled to compensation. For example:

• A faulty substation was not repaired in time

• Load shedding schedules were not followed properly

• A reported issue was ignored or delayed

Negligence must be clearly proven and backed by evidence.

2. City Power ignored a reported fault

If you logged a fault and City Power failed to act, and that inaction led to damage, your claim has more weight. Your reference number will be essential in the process.

When you can’t claim, even if you suffered damage

1. You don’t have enough proof

If you cannot show that:

• The damage happened because of City Power’s error

• Your appliance was in good condition beforehand

• Their negligence was directly linked to the surge

Then your claim will likely be denied.

2. Damage was caused by force majeure or external events

City Power is not responsible for:

• Lightning strikes

• Cable theft or vandalism

• Extreme weather events

These are considered beyond their control.

3. Your appliances were worn or faulty

Claims are often rejected if the damaged items were already old, damaged, or not properly maintained before the surge occurred.

4. The damage occurred beyond the ‘point of control’

Under SANS 10142 and Johannesburg bylaws, City Power is only responsible up to the “point of control,” usually the circuit breaker or meter box at your boundary. Anything beyond that is your own infrastructure and your responsibility.

Image 1: DSC Attorneys

How to claim from City Power in 2025

If you believe City Power is at fault, follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Report the incident immediately
Log the issue on City Power’s website or via the call centre. Keep your fault reference number.

Step 2: Gather your evidence
Take clear photos or videos of the damaged appliances. Get repair or replacement quotes. Record any relevant timelines, especially when outages or surges happened.

Step 3: Fill in the Public Liability Claim Form
Download it from the City Power website. Fill it out fully and honestly, with all required documentation attached.

Step 4: Submit your claim
Send your completed form, supporting documents, and reference number to City Power’s insurance division, either by email or in person.

Step 5: Wait for the technical assessment
City Power’s insurance team will compile a technical report to assess the cause. If they find they were at fault, you may be compensated.

What has changed in 2025?

The updated SANS 10142-1:2024 standard introduced stricter rules around surge protection and proper electrical grounding. If your home is not compliant, your claim may be denied, even if the surge came from City Power.

In 2025, delays in claims processing have also increased due to widespread infrastructure damage, cable theft, and budget strain. Many residents now claim through their insurance first, then pursue City Power if negligence can be proven.

Claiming tips for Joburg households

• Install surge protection at your DB board; it’s a small investment that can save you thousands

• Check your household insurance policy; most now cover power surges or outages

• Never tamper with infrastructure beyond your boundary wall; it’s illegal and will void any claim

• Document everything thoroughly: receipts, photos, dates, reference numbers

What Joburgers are saying

Joburg residents have taken to social media to share mixed experiences. Some say they’ve waited months for answers with no success. Others report partial payouts, but only when the evidence was strong and City Power acknowledged fault.

One common thread? Claims are more successful when you’re organised, persistent, and can clearly show how the damage happened.

City Power claims in Johannesburg are real but not guaranteed. You’ll need clear proof, the right paperwork, and an understanding of the rules. With infrastructure under strain and surge risks rising, knowing your rights could save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress in 2025.

Also read: Cheap Ways to Keep Your Fridge Cold Without Power in South Africa (2025)

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