Home insurance policies cover power surge damage to electronics and
appliances, but the protection amount depends on the cause of the surge.
Power surges can occur internally or externally, and lightning strikes
and power outages can cause them.
Homeowners should understand their insurance coverage and take preventive measures
such as unplugging electronics during thunderstorms, using surge protectors,
updating old electrical systems, and installing whole house surge protection.
Personal property coverage in a homeowners policy covers appliances and electronics,
but equipment breakdown coverage is recommended for extra protection.
Type 1 surge protection is installed at the meter base to protect against
external sources, while type 2 whole-house surge protectors are
installed at the main service panel.
Power strips are a cost-effective way to safeguard equipment from electrical
surges, but they arent always effective.
Home insurance may cover artificially generated surges, but renters insurance
only covers personal belongings.
To file an insurance claim for power surge damage, contact your insurer
and collect evidence of the damage.