The Sunshine State is known not only for its pleasant weather, but also for its powerful storms. Additionally, it is the U.S. state with the largest number of lightning strikes. There are no less than 1.2 million bolts per year, according to AccuWeather. This means that there is a very real possibility of your home being struck by lightning during a storm and suffering various damages. In this article, hurricane damage adjusters discuss the challenges of filing a lightning damage claim.
First of all, you should know that even basic homeowners’ insurance covers damage caused by lightning. It is one of the standard events included in the policy, with no exclusions. However, that does not mean that you will be able to collect your claim amount quickly and without hassle. Insurers will try to find loopholes to underpay your claim. For this reason, you need to rely on experienced damage adjusters to help you file and negotiate your claim.
Proving that Damage Was Caused by Lightning
A lightning bolt can cause various types of damages:
- Pierce a hole through your roof
- Damage the electrical wiring in your home
- Damage various home appliances and electronic devices beyond repair
Insurers will demand proof that these damages were actually caused by a lightning strike. This means that you need to look carefully for signs of damage at the point where the lightning struck your property. You will be able to see charring and melted materials at the exact point of entry. Sometimes, the bolt will hit next to your house. This could cause burning to the electric wiring or damage to the plumbing.
Documenting the Damage Is Extremely Important
Hurricane damage adjusters know where to look for signs of damage. They also know how to interpret them in terms of cause and effect in your claim form. It is important to have clear photographic evidence before starting repair works, or before an upcoming storm washes these signs away.
It may be difficult or dangerous for you to go and look for all these signs of damage, especially if they are on the roof. Public adjusters have the experience and know-how to evaluate and document all damage safely, without missing any important elements.
Let Hurricane Damage Adjusters Help You Prepare Your Claim
The scariest part after lightning damage, once you have secured your home, is not knowing when you may fix it and bring it back to the way it used to be. This is your safe place, where you raise a family, but right now it is not neither safe nor pleasant to live in.
Our hurricane damage adjusters will make sure that your lightning damage claim is paid up to a fair value and as soon as possible. Contact us before notifying your insurer and we will take care of the entire claim procedure!