The short answer
Yes. Standard homeowners policies list lightning, along with fire, as a covered peril. That includes a direct strike on the house and the fire or explosion that can follow.
Your deductible still applies, and the details depend on your policy. Review your declarations page or talk with your agent to confirm your limits.
Three ways lightning damages a home
- A direct strike that damages the roof, chimney or framing
- A fire started by the strike
- A power spike that travels through wiring, cable or phone lines into the home
Electrical damage from a strike
A nearby strike can send a surge through your wiring and damage appliances, HVAC systems and electronics. When the cause is lightning, this is usually covered. Surges from other causes can be treated differently, which we cover in our power surge guide.
Personal property coverage pays for damaged belongings, minus your deductible. Check whether your policy pays replacement cost or actual cash value for electronics.
Trees, sheds and fences
If lightning splits a tree and it falls on your house, the damage to the home is usually covered. Tree removal often has its own small limit.
Detached garages, sheds and fences fall under other structures coverage, which is typically a portion of your dwelling limit. If you have a large detached building, such as a workshop or a barn, make sure that limit is enough to rebuild it.
Supporting a lightning claim
Carriers may ask how you know lightning was the cause. Helpful evidence includes the storm date and time, weather service records of strikes near your address, scorch marks, and a written report from an electrician or HVAC technician.
Keep damaged items until the adjuster has seen them or tells you they can go.
Lowering your risk
A lightning protection system, installed by a qualified pro, can direct a strike safely into the ground. Whole-home and point-of-use surge protectors can limit damage to electronics. Unplug sensitive equipment before a big storm when you can.
Trim dead or leaning trees near the house, since a struck tree can fall. And keep a simple home inventory, with photos of your electronics and appliances, so you can show what you owned if you ever need to file.
