Is your home covered for lightning damage?

The number of lightning strikes in the UK is increasing every year and, according to Halifax Home Insurance's own in-house claims data, claims for lightning damage are 14 times more frequent during summer compared to the winter months.

With an average claim for lightning damage reaching £1,453 last year, the insurer is advising homeowners to check their home insurance policies cover them for damage caused by lighting and electrical storms, which are common at this time of year.

Lightning can cause potentially costly damage to your home including:

Fire
Structural damage
Loss of power supply
Damage to electrical equipment such as PCs and televisions.

Head of underwriting for Halifax Home Insurance, David Rochester, advises: "At this time of the year the weather conditions often mean we see electrical storms happening all over the country, so it is important for homeowners to be aware of the risks that lightning poses to property and make sure they have a home insurance policy in place which includes protection for this type of damage."

David continued: "Lightning can strike anywhere, often with little warning, so it is essential to have cover in place so that if the worst happens any cost for repairs or replacement of damaged property will be covered."

The Met Office recommends a few simple measures that can be taken in order to minimise the risk of personal injury or damage to your home:

Unplug all non-essential appliances including televisions, as lightning can cause power surges

Avoid using the phone as lightning can be conducted through telephone lines

Avoid using taps and sinks as metal pipes can also conduct electricity

If outside, avoid water and find a low-lying open place that is a safe distance from trees, poles or metal objects

Avoid activities such as golf, rod fishing or boating on a lake.

Halifax Home Insurance covers homeowners for lightning damage as standard under its Home Buildings and Contents policy, and also offers unlimited cover, so householders will never be underinsured.

For more advice on keeping the home safe and secure visit the Halifax Home Insurance Virtual Home at halifax.co.uk/insurance/virtualhome