When you claim on your Pineapple All-Risk policy, two things decide how much you actually pocket: the Excess (your slice of the bill) and the Compensation Limit (the ceiling on what we’ll pay). Knowing how these work means fewer surprises and less chance of saying “wait, what?” when claim time comes.
The Excess: Your Slice of the Bill
The Excess is your first contribution toward a claim — your share of the loss before Pineapple steps in.
Basic/Selected Excess
Standard rule = 17.5% of the claim OR R1,100 (whichever is higher).
Example 1: Claim = R5,000 → 17.5% = R875, which is less than R1,100 → You pay R1,100.
Example 2: Claim = R10,000 → 17.5% = R1,750 → You pay R1,750.
Specific Item Excesses
Jewellery, pedal cycles, and non-factory car radios don’t follow the above rule. They’ve got their own excesses listed on your Policy Schedule. (Yes, that document is actually important.)
Standard Additional Excesses
Claiming early? If you claim within 6 months of starting your policy or adding a new item, you’ll pay an extra excess (again 17.5% or R1,100 — whichever is higher).
Think of it as the “new policy/new item patience tax.”
All excess amounts include VAT (so no hidden add-ons).
Underinsurance: The Silent Wallet-Kicker
Even if you understand excess and limits, underinsurance can shrink your payout.
If you insure for less than the true replacement value, Pineapple only pays out in proportion — and you cover the shortfall.
Example:
You insure for R8,000, but actual replacement value = R10,000.
That’s 80% cover.
Claim = R10,000 → Payout = R8,000. You eat the other R2,000.
Bottom Line
Excess = your share of the bill.
Compensation Limit = the ceiling.
Underinsurance = your hidden shortfall.
Keep your item values realistic, check your Policy Schedule, and you’ll save yourself some painful “I wish I’d known that” moments at claim time.
*The information provided here is for informational purposes only. For the full terms and conditions, please consult your policy wording.