Can lightning damage my wiring even if it did not hit my house?

Yes. A lightning strike within a few hundred metres can send a voltage surge along the mains supply that enters your property. This can damage protective devices, sensitive electronics, and wiring insulation.

Should I get surge protection fitted after a lightning strike?

Yes. Surge protection devices (SPDs) are now recommended by BS 7671 18th Edition Amendment 2 for most installations. They can protect against future surge events from lightning and other sources.

Will my insurance cover lightning damage?

Yes, lightning damage is covered by standard home insurance policies as an insured peril. Document all damage and keep any damaged items as evidence for your claim.

How do I know if lightning damaged my electrics?

Signs include: consumer unit MCBs or RCDs that have tripped and will not reset, scorched or melted components, appliances and electronics that no longer work, flickering lights, and a burning smell from any part of the installation.

Electrical Damage After Lightning Strike

Lightning has struck your property or nearby and your electrics are damaged or not working.

Emergency · Updated 22 September 2026

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What's happening?

A lightning strike on or near a property can send a massive surge through the electrical installation, damaging or destroying protective devices, wiring, appliances, and electronics. Even a nearby strike (within a few hundred metres) can induce a surge in the mains supply sufficient to damage sensitive equipment. Direct strikes can cause structural damage, fires, and complete destruction of the consumer unit.

What usually causes it?

Direct lightning strike to the property or its supply cable
Nearby lightning strike inducing a mains surge through the supply network
Lightning strike to a tree or structure that earths through the property's electrical system
Surge entering through telephone, broadband, or TV aerial cables
Induced voltage spike from a strike on the local electricity network

Is it dangerous?

A lightning strike is an emergency. If there is any sign of fire, burning smell, or structural damage, call 999 immediately. Even without visible damage, lightning can cause hidden faults in wiring insulation that create ongoing fire and shock risks. Do not use any electrical equipment until the installation has been professionally inspected.

Can I fix it myself?

Check for any signs of fire or burning and call 999 if found. Do not touch the consumer unit if it appears damaged or scorched. If you can safely reach it and it appears undamaged, turn off the main switch as a precaution. Unplug all sensitive electronics. Do not attempt to repair any lightning-damaged equipment yourself.

When should you call an electrician?

Call an electrician urgently after any lightning strike that has affected your electrics. A full Electrical Installation Condition Report is essential to identify any hidden damage. If the consumer unit has been damaged, it will need replacing before power can be restored.