Have Lightning Damage? Take These 4 Effective Recovery Steps

11/28/2022 (Permalink)

The professionals at SERVPRO are always available when disasters strike!

SERVPRO of Athens will quickly mitigate lightning damage to avoid further destruction to your property.

When most people think of lightning, they think of a bright light followed some time later by a loud rumble. However, lightning is more than a breathtaking display of nature's power—it can also cause extensive damage to a property and its contents.

Every year the professionals at SERVPRO of Athens mitigate and restore lightning damage for multiple homeowners and businesses. We understand the science behind lightning and how it affects different materials. We also have the knowledge and experience to get your property back to pre-damage conditions quickly.

This article will provide some practical steps to follow when your property has been hit by lightning.

What is lightning, and how does it form?

Lightning is a naturally occurring electrical discharge that occurs during thunderstorms. As the storm clouds become charged with electricity, a giant spark of lightning can form and travel from the cloud to the ground in seconds.

How can lightning damage a property?

Lightning can cause severe damage to your property in several ways. The most common type of damage is fires. However, lightning can also cause electrical surges that damage your electronics and appliances. In addition, lightning can cause physical damage to your property, such as holes in the roof.

Four steps to follow after your property has been hit by lightning.

Take the following steps if you suspect that lightning has hit your property:

1. Prioritize safety: If you have any electronics damaged by lightning, it is important to unplug them and keep them away from water. In addition, if there is any structural damage, you should exit the property and not enter it until it has been inspected by a professional.
2. Call your insurance company: You will need to file a claim with your insurance company to get reimbursement for the damages.
3. Contact a professional restoration company: A professional storm damage restoration company can help you assess the damage and begin the mitigation and restoration process. Contact a restoration company that understands storm and fire damage and has the equipment and experience to quickly get your property back to pre-damage conditions.
4. Document the damage: Taking pictures or videos of the damage for your insurance claim is one of the most critical steps. Documentation will help your insurance company determine the extent of the damage and how much they will reimburse you.

Can you prevent lightning damage?

Lightning is a natural phenomenon, and there is no guaranteed way to prevent it from damaging your property. However, there are some things you can do to minimize the risk of lightning damage, such as:

• Installing lightning rods: Lightning rods are one of the most effective ways to protect your property from lightning damage. Lightning rods work by dissipating the electrical charge from a lightning strike, which can help prevent fires and electrical surges.
• Trimming trees: If you have trees on your property, it is essential to trim them regularly. Overhanging branches can conduct electricity and cause debris damage to your property if they are struck by lightning.
• Upgrading your electrical system: If you live in an area prone to lightning strikes, consider upgrading your electrical system. An upgrade can help protect your electronics and appliances from electrical surges.

These are just a few things you can do to minimize the risk of lightning damage to your property.

How can SERVPRO of Athens help with lightning damage?

Lightning is one of the most influential and destructive forces of nature. When it comes to lightning damage to a property, there is no telling the amount of destruction it can cause. However, if you are dealing with lightning damage, you can contact a professional storm damage restoration company like SERVPRO of Athens for help with the recovery.

We have the experience and equipment to assess the damage and begin the mitigation process quickly. We also understand that lightning damage can be overwhelming. Therefore, we will work with you and your insurance company to make the restoration process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Contact us today to learn more about our lightning damage restoration services or to schedule an inspection!