What is Third Party, Fire, and Theft Car Insurance?

Third Party Fire and Theft Car Insurance provides cover for damage caused to other parties and their property in the event that you are responsible for an accident. It also covers the cost if your car is stolen or damaged in the event of a hijacking, theft or fire.

Call Me Back Call Me Back

Leave your details and we'll call you back

Compare Quotes Online 

Compare Third-Party, Fire and Theft Car Insurance

Compare Car Insurance Offers

from South Africa’s top providers

All our insurer partners are licenced Insurers and FSP’s.
We are always trying to add more brands for our customers. If you don’t see a brand, that’s their decision.

A car is often one of our biggest investments, so taking care of it is a big priority. We’ve all heard of comprehensive car insurance, and you probably know what that does—it covers you for the widest range of scenarios when it comes to car cover. But what about third party, fire, and theft car insurance? Where does that fit in?

It’s a basic type of insurance and the unsung hero of budget-friendly car ownership. It’s ready to save the day when life throws a curveball your way (or directly at your beloved ride). Here’s what you need to know.

 

Third Party, Fire and Theft: Insurance for the Essentials

There are three main categories of car insurance in South Africa: comprehensive car insurance , third party, fire and theft insurance, and third party only cover.

Third party, fire and theft doesn’t give as much insurance coverage as comprehensive does, but it covers more than third party only insurance. Here’s a handy table to break it down:

 

 ComprehensiveThird Party, Fire & TheftThird Party Only
Accidents    
Theft + Hijacking  
Vandalism    
Fire + Explosions  
Damage to Someone Else’s Property
Weather Damage    

 

Third Party, Fire and Theft: Insurance for the Essentials

There are three main categories of car insurance in South Africa: comprehensive car insurance, third party, fire and theft insurance, and third party only cover.

Third party, fire and theft doesn’t give as much insurance coverage as comprehensive does, but it covers more than third party only insurance. Here’s a handy table to break it down:

Get Quotes Now  Get Started

Three coverage areas

Let’s get into more detail on third party, fire and theft coverage. Three terms = three things covered.

Third-party Coverage

It pays out for damages that you accidentally cause to other people or property by your vehicle. For example, if you're involved in an accident and it's deemed your fault, this insurance would cover the costs of repairing the other person's car or property.

Fire Coverage

It gives coverage if your vehicle is damaged or destroyed by fire, whether the fire is accidental or intentional.

So for example, if a short circuit or malfunction in your car's electrical system leads to a fire, or if there’s a mechanical failure or leak in your engine that causes it to overheat and catch fire.

It also covers arson. So if someone deliberately sets fire to your car, whether it's for malicious reasons or as part of a criminal act such as theft. Touch wood you never have to experience this!

Wildfires or a fire in your garage that caused damage to your ride would also be covered.

Theft Coverage

This part of the policy covers the loss of your vehicle if it's stolen, which is unfortunately something that happens fairly often in South Africa. Around 60 cars are stolen here a day, according to  recent figures.

It also covers carjacking, break-ins, or parts of your car being stolen (like a battery or hubcaps).

South Africa’s Leading Car Insurance Comparison Website

1,3 MILLION car insurance quotes per year. That’s a lot of saving!

4,5 /5

Independent Service Rating

based on 20 704 service ratings.

Get a Car Insurance Quote Get Started

What Does Third Party, Fire and Theft Cost?

As we’ve mentioned, third party, fire, and theft car insurance is the budget-friendly cousin of comprehensive insurance.

While comprehensive insurance can cost anything from R300 a month to thousands of rands for an expensive vehicle, third party, fire, and theft is usually under R500 a month. This all depends on your car, of course.

The reason it costs less is because it offers a lower level of cover. In particular, it doesn’t foot the bill for damage to your own vehicle if you’re in an accident. You’d have to cover your own repairs in that scenario.

So why would you go for this type of insurance at all? Well, it’s great for when you’re on a budget but still want some level of protection.

 

Do Your Research

So how do you choose the best third party, fire and theft cover for you? Using Hippo, of course. With us, you can compare insurance quotes from some of South Africa’s leading car insurance providers, making sure you snag the best deal for your four-wheeled friend.

You’ll save time, stress, and money.

 

Get Quotes Now Get Started

Understanding Third-Party Car Insurance

Third-party cover is the most basic and affordable insurance. Here's what you need to know:

It covers damage or injury you cause to others or their property. It does not cover your own vehicle or medical costs.

You are not covered for your own vehicle. If the other driver is insured, their insurer pays. If not, you're liable for repairs unless the Road Accident Fund applies (for injuries only).

No. It includes basic third-party cover plus protection for your own car in case of theft or fire—but not for accidental damage.

Your age, claims history, where you live, car type, and driving record all impact how much you’ll pay—even with third-party cover.

It meets legal requirements but doesn’t protect your own car. Consider comprehensive insurance for more peace of mind and coverage.

Start with Basic, Upgrade if Needed

Third-party cover is a solid starting point, especially for older cars. Compare policies and upgrade as your needs evolve.

Expert Tools, Tips and Guides

Welcome to our comprehensive Car Insurance Guide, where we've meticulously compiled essential information, tools, and insights designed to assist you in navigating the complex world of car insurance.

Our Guides

Our Guides

Our Tips

Our Tips

You can compare more than just car insurance quotes.

Put yourself in the driver’s seat of your dream car and keep it looking brand-spanking new with value-added insurance products, provided by trusted and reliable South African insurers.