What Happens When Lightning Strikes
Lightning is nature’s giant spark. In Florida, Texas, and beyond, especially in places like Orlando, Miami, Houston, Dallas, and North Texas, thunderstorms are common, and so are lightning strikes. When lightning hits a house, it can cause:
- Fire that may burn through the roof and walls
- Damage to wiring, appliances, and electronics
- Surge damage even if the bolt doesn’t land directly on your home
In May 2025, a home in Sanford, Florida, was struck late at night. It caused a huge fire, destroying the roof. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Now, another story - just the same month, shows a similar event in Benbrook Lake, North Texas, where a multi-million-dollar mansion was in flames after a possible lightning strike. Fire crews rushed in, but the roof collapsed, and smoke billowed as the blaze spread.
Types of Lightning Damage
Whether in Florida or Texas, lightning can do several kinds of property damage:
- Roof and structural damage
- Fire and smoke damage
- Burned wiring or outlets
- Appliance and electronics damage from power surges
- Solar panel damage (which isn’t always covered)
Understanding Your Insurance Policy
Most homeowners' insurance in both states offers protection against lightning damage, including fire, smoke, and destroyed personal items. But watch out for the fine print that can limit your payout. Know the following:
- Deductibles: the amount you pay before insurance pays (typically $1,000–$5,000)
- Policy exclusions: surge and solar panel damage may need extra coverage
- Deadlines: many insurance companies require you file your insurance claim within 30 - 60 days of the damage
Even though lightning damage may be “covered,” you must file quickly and correctly to get full compensation. Insurance disputes often arise when homeowners miss deadlines or fail to provide proper proof.
What to Do if Lightning Strikes Your Home
- Stay safe: leave if you see fire or smoke
- Call 911: firefighters will inspect and control the damage
- Document the scene: take clear, timestamped photos and videos
- Notify your insurance company: report the case and share details
- Meet the adjuster: stay calm, be honest, and don’t sign anything you don’t understand
- Get repair quotes: hire licensed local contractors in Florida or Texas
- Review the settlement: insurance companies often underpay, especially for electrical damage or structural losses. Be ready to push back.
How Vargas Gonzalez Delombard Helps You
Vargas Gonzalez Delombard is a law firm that guides Florida homeowners through this complex process when facing lightning damage claims.
- Policy Deep Dive
They help you understand what your policy actually covers - deductibles, limits, hidden exclusions like surge damage or solar panels.
- Proof Gathering
The firm brings in experts like electricians, home inspectors, or engineers to prove lightning caused the damage.
- Filing & Timing
They file all forms correctly and on time, and make sure you don't miss any deadlines that insurance companies set.
- Negotiation
If the insurance company offers less than you need, the attorneys negotiate hard or take legal action to make them pay full value.
- Litigation Ready
If talks fail, Vargas Gonzalez Delombard can sue in court. Many insurers prefer to settle rather than go to trial.
- More Than Just Help
This team also advises on ways to avoid future problems like installing surge protection, updating insurance to include solar panels, or adding lightning rods.
Why Homeowners Should Take Property Damage Seriously
- Lightning is frequent in both Florida and Texas
- Insurance claims can be denied if filed incorrectly or without proof
- Repair costs for roofs, wiring, and electronics, can reach tens of thousands
- Your premiums may go up or your policy could be non-renewed if you mishandle your claim
What You Can Do Today
- Review your current policy. Do you have surge protection? What is your deductible? Are solar panels covered?
- Document your home’s condition. A few clear photos now can help you later.
- Add surge protectors or ask an electrician about whole‑house protection.
- Contact Vargas Gonzalez Delombard for a free case review if your home is hit by lightning.
Get Support for Your Lightning Damage Insurance Claim
If your home or property was struck by lightning or suffered fire damage, don’t let your insurance company push you aside. Vargas Gonzalez Delombard LLP fights for families, recovering the funds needed to rebuild - efficiently, fairly, and with no upfront costs.
