Utility restoration and property damage are different
A storm may interrupt the utility supply, damage equipment at a home or cause both. Restored power on the street does not prove that every circuit or connection at your property is safe. Likewise, one nearby home having electricity does not rule out a supply fault at yours.
Report remaining partial power to your utility. Describe whether some rooms are dark, lights have changed brightness or large appliances no longer operate. If the utility identifies a property-side problem, an electrician may need to evaluate it before normal use resumes.
Stay away from storm-damaged equipment
Keep clear of fallen lines, exposed wiring, damaged service equipment and anything in contact with them. Do not enter standing water near electrical equipment. Do not approach equipment to test whether it is energized.
Water-damaged equipment requires professional evaluation; drying out is not proof it is safe to use. If smoke, fire or an immediate electrical danger is present, leave safely and call 911. Report damaged utility lines from a safe location.
Symptoms that need to be reported
- Power returns in some rooms but remains off in others.
- Lights become unusually bright, dim or unstable.
- Breakers begin tripping after the storm.
- Outlets or circuits that previously worked remain dead.
- A burning smell, unusual sound or visible damage appears.
Lightning-related problems are not always visible, and the timing of a fault does not establish its cause. Do not make assumptions about which component needs replacement.
Preparing for a service conversation
Write down the approximate time of the storm and when you noticed the power problem. Explain what the utility has already reported or inspected. Provide photographs only if you already have them or can obtain them without approaching damaged equipment.
Ask the provider whether utility coordination or permits may be needed. Repair availability can change after severe weather. The provider must confirm scheduling and pricing; this website cannot promise priority restoration.
Requesting help in Winter Garden
Share the property’s location, not only a mailing ZIP, so an independent provider can confirm coverage. Keep any emergency or utility instructions available for the provider handling the request.
For immediate warning signs, use the emergency electrical safety guide. For persistent uneven power after restoration, see partial power outage guidance.
Questions about this problem
Should I call the power company or an electrician?
Report suspected supply problems to the utility listed on your bill, particularly when several circuits or 240V appliances are affected. Property wiring problems need an electrician. A neighbor having power does not rule out a utility-side fault at your home.
Is partial power loss an electrical emergency?
It can be, especially with burning smells, smoke, sparking, a hot panel or major changes in light brightness. Leave the affected area if there is danger. For fire, smoke or immediate danger, call 911 from a safe location; this referral line is not emergency dispatch.