Home insurance warning over lightning

Homeowners should check that their home insurance policy covers damage by lightning, an expert has warned.

The number of home insurance claims for lightning damage in August increases by up to five times that seen in any other month, claims Halifax Home Insurance.

Furthermore, the average home insurance claim for lightning damage rises by 20 per cent to over £600.

Vicky Emmott, senior underwriting manager at Halifax Home Insurance, warns that many policies may not cover additional costs, as lightning can often cause very serious damage to a property.

Make sure that you have adequate cover and also check your policy wording to ensure that storm damage is covered otherwise you could be left to foot the bill yourself, she comments.

It's very important to make sure that you have the correct sum insured to cover the maximum possible loss or damage or your payout following any claim will be reduced.

Following record temperatures in July 2006, many have expected thunderstorms and lightning throughout August, although the expected high temperatures have yet to be recorded throughout the UK.