The Effects of Lightning on Residential Property

6/21/2022 (Permalink)

Residential Property Damage Caused by Lightning

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, homeowners are more likely to suffer lightning fire damage from June to August. Those sunny mornings transform quickly into fierce afternoon and evening showers. The storm frequency increases the odds of a residential strike.

However, strikes can occur at any time of year, leaving residents with a long list of expensive safety and cleanup needs. Anyone, therefore, is at risk, so it's crucial for owners in West Salem, WI, to understand the threat. The following are three things to know about the aftereffects of thunderstorm harm.

1. Lightning Damage Is Expensive

The Insurance Information Institute notes that in 2020, insurance companies handled 71,551 claims, paying out as much as $2.1 billion for damage. The group's report reveals that most individual requests for lightning-related destruction cost around $28,000, with situations in California costing upwards of $217,000.

2. Strikes Affect Multiple Aspects of Your Home

The high cost for repairs stems from the various aftereffects of the lightning fire. The structure faces a significant power surge when the bolt hits your home in West Salem, WI. Because an electrical current can travel through electrical, cable and phone wiring, you may experience a direct hit or find yourself the victim of a nearby strike.

Inside the house, it can wreak havoc on the appliances and technology, frying their circuits or creating short fuses. Furthermore, fires can start, spreading throughout various rooms, and the bolt's impact could crack or breach structural materials and the foundation.

3. Your Home Needs Professional Assessment

During a house fire or lightning-related event, leave the house. Request help certified fire damage experts who can assess the property, determine the extent of the damage and put together an action plan for cleanup and repair.

Lightning fire is common and devastating. Restoration is needed to ensure the property is safe to use; therefore, work with specialists who understand storm impact and how to remediate the damage.