Ulrich learned that utilities don't have to pay, but some will.
Jeff Duda said smoke poured out of his flat-screen TV first, then he was choked by smoke from his breaker box.
“It scared the life out of me. (I thought) the whole place is going to burn down,” Duda said.
He discovered that an FP&L transformer malfunctioned near his RV Park. Duda said the manager told him several homes were zapped with a 600-volt surge.
Duda's electronics, computer and appliance damages totaled more than $1,800.
He filed claims with his insurance company and FP&L but said the utility ignored him.
“They never even acknowledged that I filed a claim, which I did do,” Duda said.
Duda said his insurance policy paid $1,300. He said he believes FP&L should pay his $500 deductible at least.
“They cased a lot of damage. They need to compensate me,” Duda said.
PALM BAY, Fla. — Consumer Complaint: Contact the Action 9 Office
Who pays for surge damages? Sometimes the power company will, but it doesn't have to.
The Florida Public Service Commission does not hold utilities liable, even when negligent.
Instead, many power companies tell customers to prevent losses by installing whole-house surge protection by a licensed electrician.
Consumer expert Richard Kithil of the National Lightning Safety Institute says that even then you could still have serious damages.
"No, there is no guarantee that a surge protection device will absolutely totally protect me from these over voltages," Kithil said.
If you have had damage from a power surge, many power companies will cover some damages, when challenged.
After Action 9 contacted FP&L, it agreed to send Jeff a $500 check the next day.
Homeowners insurance usually covers power surge damages, but it can come at a cost. There's always the chance for a premium increase after any claim.
Officials with the company said when a customer files a claim for damage FP&L will investigate the cause and take responsibility, if warranted.
They also said each claim is evaluated on its own merits.
WFTV
