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Downed Power Lines and Home Damage: Safety and Insurance Guide

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Immediate Safety Steps

If a power line falls near your home, treat it as live and dangerous. Keep yourself, family, and pets at least 30 feet away. Do not touch the line, any object touching it, or standing water near it. Call 911 right away and warn neighbors to stay back.

If a power line touches your car and you are inside, stay put unless fire or smoke forces you out. If you must exit, jump clear without touching the car and the ground at the same time. Land with feet together and shuffle away. See a doctor if you feel unwell after any exposure.

Assessing Home Damage

After the utility company secures the line, inspect your home from a safe distance. Look for burnt spots, melted siding, damaged roof, or broken windows. Check for power surges that may have affected appliances or wiring. Do not enter the house until officials say it is safe.

Take photos and videos of all damage before any cleanup. Note the date and time. Keep a list of damaged items, including model numbers if possible. This documentation helps when you file a claim. If you live in Kirkland, keep your shutoff valve location written down for emergencies.

  • Stay 30 feet away from the line
  • Call 911 immediately
  • Do not touch anything touching the line
  • Keep pets indoors or leashed
  • Wait for utility workers to clear the area
  • Document damage with photos and notes

Insurance and Claims

Contact your insurance company as soon as it is safe. Describe the damage and provide your documentation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Power surges may be covered under your homeowner's policy, but downed lines themselves are usually the utility's responsibility.

Ask about coverage for temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs you make. Do not throw away damaged items until an adjuster sees them. Check your policy for specific exclusions and deadlines for filing claims.

Preventing Future Issues

Trim trees near power lines before storm season. Contact your utility for professional trimming, as you should never cut branches near lines. Install surge protectors on sensitive electronics. Consider a whole-home surge protector for added safety.

Keep an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered radio. Plan for power outages by knowing how to manually open garage doors and sump pumps. In a mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers, storms can bring down lines, so preparation is key.

When to Call for Help

After safety is handled, you may need professional help for water damage from rain or fire damage from sparks. Local water damage pros can assess and restore your home. They handle drying, cleaning, and repairs. For electrical issues, hire a qualified electrician.

If you have mold growth after water intrusion, consult a mold professional. For structural concerns, a qualified contractor or engineer can evaluate. Always verify credentials and ask for references. Never attempt repairs near power lines or damaged wiring yourself.

  • Call a plumber for burst pipes after freezing
  • Hire an electrician for wiring damage
  • Consult a mold professional for mold growth
  • Ask a qualified attorney for claim disputes

Talk to someone now

Call (425) 406-3256 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (425) 406-3256

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for power to be restored?

Restoration time depends on the extent of the outage and the utility's resources. It can take hours or days. Stay away from downed lines until the utility says it is safe. Keep your emergency kit ready and check your policy for coverage of spoiled food.

What should I do if a power line falls on my car?

Stay inside the car unless there is fire or smoke. If you must exit, jump clear without touching the car and the ground simultaneously. Land with feet together and shuffle away. Call 911 immediately and wait for help.

Will my insurance cover damage from a power surge?

Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Many homeowner policies cover sudden power surges, but check your policy. Document all damage and file a claim promptly. If you have a separate rider for electronics, review that too.

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