What to Do When a Tree Falls on Your Roof
When a tree falls on your roof, it can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Apart from the roof damage, there are also potential risks of injury to you or your family. It’s important to take action quickly to minimize further damage and assess the situation properly. This article will provide an overview of what to do if a tree falls on your roof.
Evacuate Your Home
Evacuation is especially important if the tree or branch has caused significant damage, such as a hole in your roof or if there’s any kind of power line on or around the fallen tree. In this case, consider staying with a neighbor or family member until the situation gets better.
Check that everyone is alright, accounted for, and safely outside the house. Evacuation is crucial, even if the roof damage is not apparent, as the roof may cave in after a while. If you do need to move out for a while, remember to secure your home.
Call 911
Depending on the severity of the crash, you may have personal injuries and may need medical personnel as well. First responders will check whether anyone is trapped and check on those injuries.
The fire department will check any compromise on affected power and gas lines that could cause additional problems. Depending on the level of damage, the authorities may also remove debris and put up caution tape to warn others.
Document the Damage
Document any damage immediately after the accident, preferably with photos or videos. Take as many photos as you can from different angles as they will be essential in insurance claims.
If you can take a video, even better because it’ll give the company better insight into the accident. You must take them before you start on repairs.
Call Your Insurance Company
Most homeowners insurance policies will cover the cost of any damage caused by a fallen tree. Before you do anything else, contact your insurer to let them know about the situation and to ask for further advice. Calling your insurance company immediately can ensure you receive full coverage.
Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and provide further guidance. The adjuster will explain what steps you need to take to repair any damage and what documentation you need for the claim.
Call a Professional Roofing Contractor
Regardless of why a tree fell on your roof, never climb to assess the situation. If there was a storm, the roof would likely be slippery, and you could risk your safety. The tree may have compromised the structure of your roof, and it may collapse with the slightest pressure.
Hire a professional roofing company to assess and repair the damage. The best thing about professionals is that they will know how to safely navigate the debris. Roofing contractors also have access to all kinds of specialized tools and materials for repairs.
Professional roofers can also spot any additional problems, such as holes in other parts of the roof, or may suggest a replacement depending on the severity. They may conduct emergency services like tarping your roof to avoid water damage until you talk to your insurance company and devise a repair or replacement plan.
These steps will help you minimize further damage and return home as soon as possible. If a tree falls on your roof, contact us at Ray’s Harford Home Improvement Contractors Inc. We are a professional roofing company and will provide you with assistance from assessing the damage to helping you contact your insurance provider. With our help, we will get your home back in shape as quickly and safely as possible.
