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What to Do After Lightning Strikes Your House

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Check for Immediate Danger

A lightning strike can start a fire, damage gas lines, or leave live electrical wires. Your first job is to check for visible flames, smoke, or the smell of burning. If you notice any of these, get everyone outside and call 911 from a safe distance. Do not re-enter until emergency responders say it is safe.

Also watch for downed power lines near your home. If you see one, stay far away and report it to the utility company. Even if nothing looks damaged, the strike may have compromised your electrical system. Turn off the main breaker to prevent electrical shorts or fires while you assess the situation.

Shut off Utilities

After confirming there is no active fire, turn off the main gas supply if you smell gas or hear a hissing sound. Do not operate any electrical switches or appliances until you are sure the wiring is safe. If you are unsure how to shut off your gas, contact your gas utility for guidance.

Turn off the main water valve as well. A lightning strike can surge through plumbing and cause leaks or burst pipes. Shutting off the water limits potential water damage inside your home. If you live in Sammamish, keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly in an emergency.

  • Use a flashlight to inspect dark areas, never candles.
  • Avoid touching any metal pipes or fixtures until power is off.
  • Keep a battery-powered radio for updates if needed.
  • Do not use the phone or any corded devices during a storm.

Document the Damage

Once it is safe, walk through your home with a camera or phone. Photograph every sign of damage: scorch marks, cracked drywall, broken windows, displaced flooring, and any water stains. Also photograph the exterior of your home, including the roof and chimney, since lightning can strike the highest point.

Make a written list of every damaged item, including electronics and appliances. Note the date and time of the strike. This documentation helps your insurance company understand the extent of the loss. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep all records in a safe, dry place.

Address Water and Moisture

Lightning can cause water damage indirectly by rupturing pipes or by rain entering through a damaged roof. If you see standing water or damp spots, act quickly to remove it. Use towels and a wet-dry vacuum to soak up excess water. The longer moisture sits, the more damage it causes to drywall, wood, and insulation.

After the immediate cleanup, set up fans and dehumidifiers to dry the affected areas. If the water damage is extensive, local water damage pros can handle the extraction and structural drying. They have the equipment to dry behind walls and under floors, which prevents mold growth.

  • Move furniture and rugs out of wet areas.
  • Open windows if the outside air is dry.
  • Remove wet carpet padding and discard it.
  • Check attic and crawl spaces for hidden moisture.

Call in the Pros

After you have done the initial safety checks and documentation, contact the pros to assess the situation. They can inspect for hidden moisture in walls, ceilings, and subfloors that you cannot see. Their moisture mapping tools identify wet spots that need attention before mold takes hold.

The pros will usually extract standing water, set up industrial dehumidifiers, and monitor moisture levels over several days. If drywall or flooring is too damaged, they can remove and replace it. The cost of such work depends on the extent of the damage and the size of your home, so ask for a detailed assessment before any work begins.

Water damage does not wait

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

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Frequently asked questions

Should I turn off my power after a lightning strike?

Yes, turn off the main breaker if it is safe to do so. This prevents electrical surges from causing fires or further damage. If you see sparks or smell burning, leave the house and call 911 first. Always use a flashlight when navigating dark areas.

Can lightning cause water damage in my home?

Yes, lightning can rupture pipes, damage your roof, or cause appliances to leak. Rain can enter through a compromised roof. Any resulting water needs to be dried quickly to avoid mold and structural damage. Check for wet spots and address them right away.

How long does it take for mold to grow after water damage?

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours on wet surfaces. That is why quick drying is critical. Remove standing water and set up fans or dehumidifiers immediately. If you cannot dry the area thoroughly, professional help may be needed to prevent mold from spreading.

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