The short answer
Protect Your Electronics
Lightning often enters a home through electrical wiring, cable lines, and phone lines. A direct strike can send a massive surge through these paths, frying computers, TVs, and appliances. Plug your most valuable electronics into surge protectors designed for lightning surges, not just basic power strips.
For stronger protection, you can have an electrician install a whole-home surge protector at your main electrical panel. This device absorbs the initial surge before it reaches your outlets. Even with one, unplugging sensitive equipment during a severe thunderstorm is the surest way to keep it safe.
- Use surge protectors for computers, TVs, and gaming consoles
- Unplug devices when storms are forecast
- Avoid using corded phones during lightning
- Keep backup batteries for laptops and phones
- Do not touch electrical panels during a storm
Reduce Fire and Water Risks
Lightning can start fires in your attic, walls, or roof. Keep tree branches trimmed so they do not touch your home, as a strike can travel down a wet limb and ignite wood. Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly so heavy rain from a storm does not back up and seep into your walls.
If your home has a metal roof or metal siding, ensure it is properly grounded. A lightning rod system, installed by a professional, can direct a strike safely into the ground. Check your roof for loose shingles or gaps where water might enter after a strike.
- Trim overhanging branches near your roof
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters
- Inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles
- Make sure metal roof components are grounded
- Keep attic vents clear of nesting material
Understand Your Insurance Options
Lightning damage to your home structure and personal belongings is often covered under a standard homeowners policy, but you should check your specific coverage. Water damage from rain that enters after lightning strikes your roof may be treated differently. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Take photos of any damage before you clean up, and keep receipts for temporary repairs. If you have a separate flood policy, it may cover water that comes from rising groundwater, but not from a storm-related roof leak. Read your policy documents or ask your agent for details.
- Review your policy for lightning and water damage clauses
- Document damage with photos and notes
- Keep records of any temporary repairs you make
- Ask about deductibles for storm damage
Act Quickly After a Strike
If lightning hits your home, check for fire immediately. If you see smoke or flames, get everyone out and call 911. Once it is safe, turn off your main water supply to prevent flooding from burst pipes caused by the surge. Then assess for water damage, such as wet ceilings or walls.
Dry wet areas within 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Use fans and dehumidifiers to speed up drying. If the damage is extensive, local water damage pros can inspect your home and help with drying and repairs. They can also check for hidden moisture in walls and insulation.
Plan for Future Storms
After a lightning event, take steps to reduce the chance of it happening again. Have a professional inspect your electrical system and grounding. Consider installing surge protection at your panel if you do not have it. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your insurance agent and a local water damage restoration service.
If you live in Euless, spring thunderstorms are part of the season. Write down the location of your main water shutoff valve and keep a battery-powered radio for weather alerts. Being prepared helps you respond quickly and limit damage to your home and belongings.
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Call (817) 799-6732 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can a surge protector stop all lightning damage?
No. Surge protectors reduce the risk, but a direct strike can overwhelm them. Whole-home protectors offer more coverage, but unplugging devices during a storm is the most reliable way to keep them safe. Even then, structural damage is possible.
What should I do if lightning starts a fire?
Evacuate everyone and call 911 right away. Do not try to put out a large fire yourself. Once firefighters clear you to return, document the damage for your insurance claim. Then contact water damage pros if smoke or water affected your home's interior.
Does homeowner's insurance cover lightning damage?
Often, yes, for structure and belongings, but it depends on your policy. Water damage from rain entering after a strike may be covered under the same claim if the roof was damaged. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy and talk to your agent.