When a tree falls on a house, even if there doesn’t appear to be much visible damage, there could be hidden structural issues that make the home unsafe to stay in.
Ensure Everyone’s Safety and Evacuate
If a tree or a large branch causes damage to the roof, check on everyone in the house, including pets, and evacuate as quickly and safely as possible. Having a disaster preparedness plan, such as a “go bag” with essentials, can be invaluable in emergencies.
To be prepared for such an event, have an emergency plan ready. If a tree falls on your home, evacuate immediately, call 911, and follow the necessary safety steps.
Contact Emergency Services
Once everyone is safely out of the house, call 911. The fire department can help secure the area, assist anyone who may be injured, and assess whether it’s safe to re-enter the building.
Notify the Utilities Provider
After contacting emergency services, consider notifying your utility provider. A fallen tree might have damaged power lines, water pipes, or home wiring, and the utility company may need to shut off power or water to prevent further risks, such as water damage or electrocution.
Reach Out to Your Insurance Company
Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover at least some of the damage caused by fallen trees, especially if the damage is due to weather. Your policy will outline whether it covers tree removal and property repairs.
An insurance adjuster will visit the site to assess the damage before any tree removal work begins. They will determine the extent of the damage and process any claims for reimbursement.
Consult an Arborist
After the storm has passed, it’s wise to consult a certified arborist. They have the expertise to handle tree removal safely and can coordinate with contractors and other professionals to ensure the job is done correctly.
Turn to Rainbow Restoration
Unexpected events, like a tree falling on your house, can be stressful. Rainbow Restoration offers the services needed to restore your home and life. If your roof is damaged, they provide roof-tarping services until repairs can be made. For broken windows, they offer board-up services to protect your home from the elements and ensure security. Their water damage restoration services help prevent mold, warped wood, and stained walls while repairing the damage.
Rainbow Restoration offers comprehensive disaster recovery services, including debris removal, cleanup, water extraction, drying, and reconstruction.
Who Is Responsible When a Tree Falls?
Understanding who is responsible for dealing with the aftermath when a tree falls is crucial:
- Tree Location: Generally, the property owner where the tree was located is responsible. If the tree falls on another property, both parties should file insurance claims, and the insurance companies will determine liability.
- Negligence: If the tree was neglected, such as being dead or diseased and not removed, the property owner responsible for tree maintenance may be liable.
- HOA: If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA), they might be responsible for the fallen tree, depending on the HOA guidelines.
Natural disasters or pest infestations can cause a tree to fall. Warning signs include visible mold and exposed roots.
Why Do Trees Fall? Key Warning Signs and Causes
The primary reasons trees fall are root damage and severe weather. Trees with weakened roots due to rot, construction damage, or soil compaction can become unstable, especially in summer when the canopy is heavy with leaves and the soil is loosened by rain.
In some cases, trees may have shallow roots, making them vulnerable to falling during rain-saturated conditions, high winds, lightning, or other extreme weather events.
Common causes of tree falls include:
- Natural disasters or severe weather, such as hail, tornadoes, or hurricanes
- Heavy rain combined with strong winds
- Pest infestations
- Tree disease
- Loose or eroded soil
- Excessive force
Warning signs that a tree may be unstable include:
- A large limb has already fallen, leaving the tree off-balance
- Cracks in the trunk or missing bark
- Exposed roots
- Cracked or rising soil at the base of the trunk
- Visible mold or soft spots in the wood
If you notice any of these signs, consult a professional to evaluate the tree and determine the best course of action.
Trust Rainbow Restoration for Tree Damage Recovery
A fallen tree on your house is a serious situation. Rainbow Restoration offers 24/7 emergency services to mitigate damage and secure your property to prevent further harm.
Contact Rainbow Restoration for board-up, tarp-over, and full reconstruction services to restore your home after tree damage.
This article provides general information and may not apply to every situation. You are responsible for determining the appropriate actions for your property. All services should be performed by licensed and experienced professionals. Rainbow Restoration is not liable for any damages resulting from the use of this content. For accurate guidance, contact a Rainbow Restoration professional for a custom, on-site assessment.
Tree Falling FAQ
Should I Be Concerned About Trees Falling on My House?
If you’re worried about an upcoming storm or notice warning signs, such as pest infestations that could cause a tree to fall, consult a professional for advice.
What If My Neighbor’s Tree Falls on My House? Who Is Responsible?
If your neighbor’s tree falls on your house, they are generally responsible. Both parties should file insurance claims, and the insurance companies will determine liability.
Should I Call 911 If a Tree Falls on My House?
Yes, if a tree falls on your house, you should call 911. Even if no one is injured, the fire department can help clear the debris and assess whether it’s safe to re-enter the home.
What Should I Do If a Tree Falls on My House During a Storm?
If a tree falls on your house during a storm, follow the same steps as in any other case: Ensure everyone’s safety, evacuate the house, and call 911.
