The short answer
Visible Signs on Walls and Roofs
A direct lightning strike often leaves a clear mark where it hit. On a roof, you might see a scorched or blackened spot, or shingles that are cracked or blown off. On walls, look for long, branching burn marks that trace the path the electricity took. These can look like dark, jagged lines or a spiderweb pattern.
Sometimes the strike enters through a window or door frame. You may see cracked or shattered glass, or a small hole in the siding or brick. The force of the strike can also crack plaster or drywall, even if there is no burn mark. Check the attic and crawl spaces for any dark streaks or damaged wood, as the charge can travel along framing.
Damage to Electrical and Metal Items
Lightning often travels through wiring, plumbing, and metal objects. You might notice melted or pitted spots on metal gutters, pipes, or appliance casings. Electrical outlets and switches can show burn marks or a smoky smell. Fuses may be blown, and circuit breakers might trip repeatedly after a strike.
Inside the home, look at electronics like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances. Even if they still turn on, a surge can damage their internal components. Check for a faint burnt odor near outlets or panels. If you see any signs, turn off the main power and call an electrician to inspect the system before using anything.
- Scorch marks on walls or ceilings
- Melted or pitted metal on pipes or gutters
- Cracked or shattered window glass
- Blown fuses or tripped breakers
- Burnt smell near outlets or panels
- Small holes in siding or brick
What to Do Right After a Strike
First, make sure everyone is safe. If you see smoke or fire, leave the home and call 911. If the strike caused a gas leak, you might smell it, so evacuate and call the gas company. Otherwise, avoid touching any metal or electrical items until you are sure the power is off.
Document the damage with photos and notes for your insurance claim. Then, contact your insurance company to report the incident. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. After that, you can reach out to local water damage pros to assess and start drying out any affected areas.
When to Call the Pros
If you see any signs of lightning damage, it is wise to have a professional inspection. The pros can check for hidden damage in wiring, plumbing, and structural elements. They can also identify water intrusion that you might have missed. A thorough inspection helps you understand the full scope of the damage.
For water damage, the pros can help with drying, cleaning, and preventing mold. They have the right equipment to detect moisture behind walls and under floors. If you live in Euless, keep your insurance policy handy and ask about coverage details. Acting quickly can reduce the risk of long-term issues like mold or rot.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Can lightning damage my plumbing?
Yes, lightning can travel through metal pipes and cause pitting or cracks. This can lead to leaks. Check for wet spots under sinks and along exposed pipes. If you find any, turn off the water and call a plumber.
Will my insurance cover lightning damage?
Homeowners policies sometimes cover lightning strikes, but not all damage is included. Check your policy and contact your insurer to confirm. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Document all damage with photos and keep receipts for any repairs.
How can I tell if my electronics are damaged?
Try turning them on. If they do not work, or if you see burnt marks on cords or outlets, they likely have surge damage. Even if they work, they may have reduced lifespan. Have an electrician test your wiring and consider surge protectors for the future.