What is this?
Storms can cause power loss through damage to overhead supply cables, lightning strikes affecting local substations, or water ingress into your property's electrical installation. Power loss after a storm requires careful assessment before attempting to restore supply.
Common causes
- Storm damage to overhead power lines or local substation
- Lightning strike causing a power surge that tripped protective devices
- Water ingress into external electrical fittings or the consumer unit
- Fallen tree or debris damaging the supply cable to your property
- Surge damage to the main fuse or meter
Is it dangerous?
Storm-related power loss can be dangerous. Do not touch any downed power lines or cables — they may still be live. If water has entered your electrical installation, do not attempt to reset anything until it has been inspected by an electrician. Lightning damage can cause hidden faults.
Can I fix it myself?
Check with neighbours to see if it is an area-wide outage. If so, call 105 or your DNO. Do not touch any external wiring or damaged components. If only your home is affected and there is no visible damage or water ingress, you can try carefully resetting the main switch in your consumer unit once.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if only your home is affected, if there is any sign of water near your electrics, if the consumer unit will not reset, or if you suspect lightning has struck nearby. An EICR may be advisable after a significant storm event.
What will an electrician do?
Inspect the installation for storm and water damage
Test all circuits for insulation integrity
Check for surge damage to protective devices
Dry out and replace any water-damaged components
Liaise with the DNO if supply-side repairs are needed
Issue an Electrical Installation Condition Report if required
Typical cost
£100 – £400
Costs depend on the extent of damage. Supply-side repairs by the DNO are free. Internal repairs vary based on what needs replacing.
