Every year, storms, strong winds, and even unstable tree roots cause trees to fall onto homes. While it’s not something most people expect to deal with, knowing what to do immediately after a tree falls on your roof can help minimize damage, keep your family safe, and speed up the repair process. This blog will explain what you should do after a tree falls on your home.
Conduct A Safety Check
The first and most important step is ensuring everyone in your home is safe. A fallen tree can cause structural damage, which means your roof—or even parts of your home—may be unstable. If the impact is severe, there could also be broken windows, downed power lines, or gas leaks, all of which pose serious hazards. If you suspect any danger, evacuate the house immediately and call emergency services for assistance.
Assess the Damage
Once you’re sure that everyone is safe, take a careful look at the damage, but do so from a safe distance. Check for visible roof damage, holes, or parts of the tree that may still be resting on your home. If it’s safe, you can take photos and videos to document the damage—this will be important when filing an insurance claim. Avoid climbing onto the roof or getting too close to any unstable areas, as the structure could be compromised and pose a risk of further collapse.
Contact Your Insurance Company
After assessing the damage, the next step is to call your homeowner’s insurance provider. Most standard home insurance policies cover damage from fallen trees and will guide you through the claim process. Be prepared to provide details about the incident and send any photos or videos you took. Keep a record of all communication with your insurance company, including the names of the representatives you speak with and the details of your conversations. Your insurance company may also arrange for an adjuster to inspect the damage before repairs begin.
Take Preventative Measures for the Future
After repairs are completed, evaluating the trees around your property is a good idea to prevent future incidents. Have a professional inspect any large or aging trees, and consider trimming overhanging branches or removing weak trees that could pose a risk during storms. Regular maintenance, such as pruning and trimming, can reduce the chances of another tree falling on your home and save you from future stress and costly repairs.
Roof Repairs in Meredith, NH, and Whitinsville, MA
Nor’Easter Roofing LLC is a roofing contractor with two New England offices! We have an office in Meredith, NH and Whitinsville, MA to better serve our New England customers! If you need a roofing service in these areas, contact us!
