Gladys' house

I was not entirely sure why I was asked by the DAO (District Administrative Officer) to help out but it probably had much to do with me being one of the few people with a camera at the Council. But anyway, some storms had caused damage to a house in Mazabuka and the occupant needed a report and photos to convince the insurers that there really was a problem. Here is my 'official' report

To whom it may concern,

Re: ASSESSMENT OF DAMAGE TO PLOT NUMBER 2950, HILLSIDE, B5 MAZABUKA

An assessment was carried out by Robert Wootton, a member of the Mazabuka Disaster Management Committee, of the above property on 10th February following a request by the occupant, a Banji Sikacheya (NRC 171661/61/1), to inspect the property. The assessor was informed that damage was sustained to the property on 23rd November 2010 following a storm and strong winds. Evidence of the following damage to the roof was found:

• Damage to 20 iron sheets (2.5m in length) and 20 iron sheets (3m) used to form the roof of the property. The iron sheets had flown off during the storm and most are deemed unusable as a result

• 10 wooden poles that support the roof were broken

• 4 iron ridges also part of the roof were damaged

• Roofing nails were damaged or lost

• A number of bricks on the side of the house were cracked with cement needed to repair the holes.

In addition, when the iron sheets flew off the roof they landed on and broke a cistern tank, and broke some furniture including a coffee table. Without the protection of the roof water from the storm damaged clothes, suitcases, papers and other personal effects.

Attached to this report are a couple of photos showing the damage to the property.

Yours sincerely,

Robert Wootton

Mazabuka Disaster Management Committee / Mazabuka DATF