After lightning strikes recorded in the villages of Dippach and Noertzingen, residents keep on asking whether a lightning rod should be installed and about who, in case of damage, would assume the relevant costs. (Tageblatt.lu)

The storms of this week accounted for much turmoil in Luxembourg with two homes being hit by lightning strikes. A major fire broke out in the attic of a house in Dippach, which was then difficult to extinguish because of the weather conditions. A large fire was registered also in Noertzingen after a flash hit the roof of a local house. Such events have raised questions about the necessity to install lightning rods as well as around who would be made accountable for the relevant costs. 

Low risk

Around 30,000 lightning strikes were registered this year in Luxembourg and the neighbouring regions according to data provided by Luca Mathias, who operates the Internet site metteochanel.blogspot.de Even though, statistically speaking, the probability to be hit by a lightning strike stands at 1 to 6 million, there have been already a few cases in Luxembourg this year.

Taking all this into account, experts recommend the provision of adequate lightning protection measures even though this is not required by law. The actions to be undertaken are quite different. An external lightning rod, for instance, has to be installed by an expert to make sure that it functions properly according to the principles of the so-called Faraday cage. Experts like Fernand Plein assess a very low risk of damage stemming from direct or indirect lightning strike if a rod has been installed on your roof by professionals. However, if you want to play it really safe, you should also buy surge protection devices. In this case an optimal protection against lightning strikes is guaranteed. 

Such actions may nevertheless be quite expensive. The installation of a good lightning rod implies an investment of about € 3.000. This amount may be even higher in older buildings or row houses. A fully equipped system with surge protection devices would account for another 700 €. Such sums may prevent owners from undertaking the necessary measures to protect their homes from lightning strikes. 

However, the fact that public buildings such as schools or hospitals or any building higher than 20 m have to be equipped with a lightning rod testify the importance of such measures.

Compensation for damages

After talking to an insurance expert, somebody whose home has been damaged by a storm can be pretty reassured. The household insurance covers damages caused by a storm, even in special cases such as a thatched roof. The costs for other damages eventually caused to electronic home appliances are covered as well.