Buildings cover protects the physical structure — walls, roof, fixtures. Contents cover protects everything that would fall out if you turned the house upside down — furniture, appliances, clothing.
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Buildings cover on a R2 million home is typically R200–R350 per month, while contents-only cover for a two-bedroom apartment runs R90–R180. Insure for rebuild cost rather than market value — underinsurance is the single most common reason home claims are reduced.
Buildings cover is compulsory if you have a mortgage bond — the bank requires it. Contents and all-risks cover are optional but cover the bulk of what you'd actually claim for.
Power-surge damage to appliances is covered by most insurers, but check the limit. Some insurers exclude consequential damage (e.g. spoiled food) unless you specifically add it.