Lightning strikes from storms could cause fire damage to your home.

4/13/2022 (Permalink)

Lightning strikes from storms near redding california, may cause fire damage to home.

When looking at a drought map of California, you see that most of our state is either under severe or extreme ratings.  

Sending most of us Shasta County residents to check the local weather quite frequently. Crossing our fingers that rain is in the forecast. But what happens when those storms you are hoping for become severe and cause damage to your home? 

According to Lightningsafety.com, 1 out of every 200 homes will be struck by lightning per year. These potential strikes can cause minimal to life-altering damage, creating a unique situation that leaves people not knowing their next steps. 

1. Verify Insurance Coverage and File a claim with your Home Insurance

• Most insurance companies will want to send out their adjusters to assess the damage and cost of repairs. Filing your claim the moments after damage occurs can help the quickness of receiving payment for your claim. Helping get your house and property back to normal. 
• Check your coverage and review the deductibles of your policy. Your home insurance could include payment for hotels, rental cars, storage facilities, gas, food, etc. 

1. Document Property Loss

• Grab your smartphone, camera, and or video camera and take pictures and videos of all property and structures that have received any damage. These should include pictures and videos of smoke damage or soot on any of your property and items. Example: couches, pans, knickknacks, comforters, etc. Keeping a detailed account of your losses will help with your home insurance claim process. 

1. Secure your property 

• One of the many services we offer at SERVPRO of North Shasta, Trinity & Greater Tehama Counties is our ability to help you keep your property safe and secure from any further damage or vandalism. Whether the damage was caused by high wind or a lightning strike causing fire damage, you need to create a barrier from outside elements or thieves. 
• Remember if your house is inhabitable, do regular drive-bys to check on your property. 

1. Know what repair company you can trust

• Your insurance company may have a repair/restoration company they automatically use. What people don't always know, you can pick your own company. Repair costs can vary drastically by the quality of work, labor, and cost of supplies. Finding a company that specializes in restoration instead of one that "just" repairs and replaces could save you a lot of money. Our philosophy is that “clear communication” can create ease for you and your family. Check out this helpful blog on "how to choose a restoration company near you”. 

Safety is one of our top priorities when it comes to our family and friends. With the potential of severe storms in our forecast for Northern California, knowing safety tips for lightning could help keep your family safe. 

Remember your local SERVPRO is here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year to help when you need us. 

Give us a call: 530-222-0200