14 times more lightning claims in summer

12 August 2008

The number of UK lightning strikes is increasing

According to data from Halifax Home Insurance, there are 14 times more claims for lightning damage in the summer compared to the winter.

The insurer also revealed that the average home insurance claim for lightning damage in 2007 was £1,453. As a result, Halifax Home Insurance is advising homeowners to check through the policy wording of their current home insurance cover to check if they are covered for damage caused by lightning and also for electrical storms, both of which are common around this time of year.

The damage that lightning can cause is likely to be costly.

Lightning can cause fire, structural damage, loss of power supply to the property and also irreparable damage to electrical equipment like computers and TVs.

David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, said: “At this time of 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 included protection for this type of damage.

“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,” he advised.

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