Sometimes, the sky lights up a little too close to home. Lightning strikes happen regularly, and they can cause numerous problems for homeowners.
If your house is struck by lightning, you should know how to protect yourself and mitigate the damage. Below are some tips and advice related to lightning and your residence.
Know the Indicators of a Potential Lightning Strike
Not all lightning strikes come with obvious signs, although you will likely hear a loud noise or see a flash outside the window. Of course, if you are sleeping or not at home, you might miss these indicators.
Unsure of whether lightning struck the outside of your home on the roof, walls or chimney? Ask yourself if you experienced additional problems. For instance, did the power to your home surge? Did the lights suddenly flicker? Did you totally lose power? These can point to lightning. Explore these issues in depth by learning more about what happens if your house gets struck by lightning.
Take any indicators of a lightning strike seriously and unplug your electronics. Then, begin to investigate inside and outside your home.
Take Care of Lightning-Related Fires
In addition to home electrical problems, lightning can lead to fire. Immediately after a lightning strike, check out your home for indications of fire or smoldering. If you think a fire started, or that a place in your home was singed, call the fire department by contacting 911.
You cannot take any fire too lightly. The faster professionals come to your home to assess any damage, the better.
Call Your Home or Renter’s Insurance Company
When you have proof that your home was hit and damaged by lightning, you will want to call your insurance company. This holds true whether you are a homeowner or renter.
The agent at the other end of the phone will walk you through a list of questions. Be as thorough as you can, answering everything to the best of your ability. You do not have to know every response. Just use your best judgment and be honest.
Find Temporary Housing if Needed
Did your lightning event leave you unable to stay in your home overnight or for a longer period? Be sure to keep any invoices if you pay for temporary housing. Your homeowner’s insurance will likely cover some of the costs.
Examine and Document Any Lightning Damage
Lightning can cause a host of physical problems, from charred roof tiles to destroyed electrical equipment. With the help of professionals, do your best to document everything. Your insurance company will also send someone to look over the damage.
During your documentation efforts, be sure to take pictures and videos when appropriate. These images will illustrate exactly what your home looked like post-lightning.
Restore Your Damaged Property
After you get the go-ahead from your insurance agent to move forward with repairs, make it your goal to get your house back to working order promptly. The sooner you fix your residence, the faster your life can return to normal.
Understanding the best practices to take after your house is struck by lightning ensures you always know what to do in an emergency, even in situations that are out of your control.
Get Your House or Apartment Insured With Strock Insurance
When life gets unpredictable, it’s important to have an insurance provider that has you covered. Contact your local agent today or request a quote on your next home insurance policy.