Florida is known as the lightning capital of the United States, with thousands of strikes occurring each year—especially during the summer months. While awe-inspiring, lightning poses a serious threat to homes and businesses across the state. When a lightning strike causes property damage, policyholders often turn to their homeowners or commercial property insurance for relief. However, navigating a lightning-related claim isn’t always as straightforward as it should be.
This blog explores how lightning strikes impact Florida property insurance claims and what policyholders should know when seeking compensation.
Common Property Damage Caused by Lightning
Lightning strikes can result in a wide variety of damages, such as:
-
Fires caused by intense heat or electrical surges
-
Power surges damaging electronics, HVAC systems, appliances, and alarm systems
-
Structural damage from direct strikes
-
Water damage from roof punctures or fires extinguished by emergency responders
-
Tree or landscaping destruction from lightning-induced fires or explosions
Even if there’s no visible fire, a lightning strike can silently damage internal wiring or electronics. That’s why a prompt inspection by licensed professionals is essential.
Is Lightning Damage Covered by Insurance in Florida?
In most cases, standard homeowners and commercial property insurance policies in Florida cover lightning damage. This includes:
-
Direct strikes causing structural damage or fire
-
Damage to personal property (like electronics or appliances) from lightning-induced power surges
-
Additional living expenses (ALE) if the property becomes uninhabitable
That said, coverage can vary depending on the policy language and any endorsements or exclusions. One of the most contested areas involves power surge damage, especially when the insurer challenges whether lightning was truly the cause.
Challenges and Disputes in Lightning Claims
Despite what may seem like a clear event, lightning claims often face delays, denials, or underpayments. Common insurer tactics or disputes include:
-
Questioning the cause of damage (e.g., claiming the power surge wasn’t due to lightning)
-
Disputing the extent of the damage or cost of repairs
-
Refusing to replace damaged electronics if no fire or visible burn marks are present
-
Requesting “proof of lightning” (like weather reports or lightning strike verification from meteorological services)
In many cases, insurers will send out engineers or adjusters who may downplay or overlook the extent of internal or electrical damage, leaving homeowners to foot the bill for repairs or replacements.
Tips for Policyholders After a Lightning Strike
If your home or property suffers a lightning strike, here’s what you should do:
-
Call emergency services if fire or injury occurs.
-
Document everything—take photos or videos of all visible damage.
-
Preserve damaged property and avoid repairs until after the inspection.
-
Report the claim promptly to your insurance company.
-
Get independent inspections or electrical testing if the insurer’s assessment seems insufficient.
-
Request meteorological data to verify the lightning strike.
-
Keep detailed records of all communications, repairs, and expenses.
When to Consult a Florida Insurance Claims Attorney
If your lightning damage claim is delayed, denied, or undervalued, you may need legal representation. An experienced Florida insurance claims attorney can:
-
Help gather evidence to prove the cause and scope of the loss
-
Negotiate with the insurer for a fair settlement
-
File a lawsuit if the insurer is acting in bad faith
Insurers have a duty to treat policyholders fairly and act promptly under Florida law. If they don’t, legal remedies may be available, including interest on unpaid amounts.
Conclusion
Lightning strikes are a fact of life in Florida—but getting your insurance claim paid shouldn’t be a nightmare. Know your rights, understand your policy, and don’t hesitate to seek legal help if your claim is mishandled. Proper legal guidance can ensure you’re fully compensated for your losses and help you get back to normal after a destructive storm.
Have you or someone you know suffered damage due to a lightning strike? Contact Florida Insurance Claims Lawyer J.P. Gonzalez-Sirgo by dialing his direct number at (786) 272-5841, calling the main office at (305) 461-1095, or Toll Free at 1 (866) 71-CLAIM or email Miami Attorney Gonzalez-Sirgo directly at [email protected] or by text at (305) 929-8935.
