My parents have one on their home in FL. They live just south of Tampa - the Lightning Capital of the World. I think it's pretty much SOP for homes in thier area. Even with it, they've still had a few lightning related issues with a whole house intercom/sound system. The main unit's been replaced twice ... apparently due to direct strikes - the antenna wire in the attic was blackened and charred and there were char spots on the unit's mainboard, but nothing else in the house has been touched.

They've since added one to their condo here in New England (they're "snow birds" ) and have pretty much talked me into having one retro-fitted - My builder refused to put one in during initial construction 2+ years ago.

pat----