The short answer
What Lightning Damage Usually Covers
Lightning strikes can cause two main types of damage: fire and power surge. Most standard home insurance policies cover fire damage caused by lightning, including the structure of your home and your personal belongings. Power surge damage to electronics, appliances, and wiring is also commonly covered under the same policy, though limits may apply.
Coverage can vary widely. Some policies pay to replace damaged items at current value, while others cover the cost to replace them new. Your policy might also pay for temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Read your policy or ask your insurance company for a clear explanation of your specific coverage.
What Is Not Covered
Not all lightning-related losses are automatically covered. If lightning starts a fire but you do not have fire coverage, you would not be protected. Also, if a power surge damages your computer but your policy excludes electronics, you would have to pay for repairs yourself. Flood damage caused by a storm that includes lightning is usually not covered under a standard policy.
You should also know that some policies have separate deductibles for certain types of damage, like a percentage of your home's value for wind or hail. Lightning damage might be subject to a standard deductible. Review your policy's declarations page to see what deductibles apply. If you are unsure, ask your insurance company before a loss happens.
- Fire damage from a lightning strike is typically covered.
- Power surge damage to electronics is often covered, but limits may apply.
- Flood damage, even from a storm with lightning, is usually not covered by standard policies.
- Separate deductibles may apply for certain perils.
- Temporary housing costs are often covered if your home is unlivable.
- Check your policy for specific exclusions and limits.
How to Document Lightning Damage
If lightning strikes your home, document everything before you clean up. Take photos and videos of the damage, including any charred outlets, melted wiring, or damaged electronics. Make a list of every item that was affected, noting the brand, model, and approximate age. Keep receipts if you have them.
This documentation helps your insurance company process your claim accurately. Do not throw away damaged items until the claims process is complete. You can also contact local water damage pros for an inspection to help identify hidden damage, such as to your electrical system or insulation. Their findings can support your claim.
Steps to Take After a Lightning Strike
First, make sure everyone is safe. If you see smoke or fire, leave the home and call 911. If the strike causes a gas leak or sparks, shut off the main gas valve if you can do so safely. Do not touch wet surfaces or standing water, as electricity can travel through it.
When to Call the Pros
Lightning can cause hidden damage beyond what you can see. A power surge can travel through wiring and affect outlets, appliances, and your electrical panel. Water damage from a fire or a roof leak can lead to mold if not dried quickly. In such cases, a professional inspection is wise.
Once it is safe, turn off your main power at the breaker to prevent further surges. Unplug electronics that may have been affected. Then, document the damage and contact your insurance company to start a claim. If you have water damage from a fire or a roof breach, the pros can help dry and restore your home.
- Hidden electrical damage may not be visible.
- Water damage from a fire requires prompt drying.
- Mold can develop within 24 to 48 hours.
- A professional inspection can document damage for your claim.
- Local water damage pros can help with drying and restoration.
- Keep your insurer's contact information accessible.
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Call (425) 407-5186 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Does my renters insurance cover lightning damage?
Renters insurance typically covers your personal belongings against lightning damage, including electronics and furniture. It may also cover additional living expenses if you cannot stay in your rental. However, it does not cover the building structure. Check your policy for limits and deductibles.
What if lightning causes a power surge that fries my computer?
Power surge damage to electronics is often covered under standard home and renters policies, but limits may apply. Some policies have a sublimit for electronics, so you might not get full replacement value. Document the damage and file a claim with your insurance company to see what they will pay.
Should I file a claim for minor lightning damage?
Consider whether the cost of repairs exceeds your deductible. If the damage is small, paying out of pocket might save you from a premium increase. However, if the damage is significant, filing a claim is reasonable. Contact your insurance company to discuss your options before deciding.