If a tree falls on your house, get everyone to safety, stay away from power lines, call 911 if anyone is hurt, photograph the damage, call a 24/7 tree service and your insurer, and do not climb on the roof or cut the tree yourself.
First 15 Minutes: Safety
- Get everyone out of the damaged area and away from the tree — a stressed tree or roof can shift.
- Call 911 if anyone is hurt, if there is fire, or if you smell gas.
- Stay away from downed power lines. Assume every line is live, and call your electric utility.
- Do not go into rooms under a damaged roof. Turn off electricity and gas if it is safe to do so.
- Do not touch water near electrical damage.
First Hour: Document and Call
- Photograph the tree, the damage and the surroundings from a safe distance — wide shots and close-ups.
- Call your homeowners insurance to open a claim. Ask what they require before work.
- Call a 24/7 tree service. Confirm license and insurance even in an emergency.
- Ask for a written estimate and a scope before work begins, if possible.
What Not to Do
- Do not climb on the roof.
- Do not cut the tree yourself — trees on structures are under tension and can spring.
- Do not hire door-to-door crews after a storm without verifying license and insurance.
- Do not sign contracts under pressure.
- Do not move debris that may be evidence for your claim before photographing it.
How an Emergency Crew Works
A professional crew secures the scene, protects the structure, tarps openings and removes the tree in controlled sections, taking pressure off the roof first. We provide photos and a written summary for your insurer. See emergency tree service.
Insurance Basics
- Homeowners policies often cover damage from falling trees and removal of the tree that caused it, subject to limits and deductibles.
- Removal of a tree that did not damage a covered structure is usually not covered.
- Your policy may cover temporary repairs like tarping and emergency board-up.
- Keep receipts and photos.
- Coverage is between you and your insurer; we provide documentation.
After the Emergency
Have any other trees on the property inspected, especially near the one that failed. A tree fall can reveal a pattern of decay or storm damage in others. An arborist assessment gives you a plan.
What Adjusters Typically Want to See
| Item | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Photos of the tree and the damage before anything is moved | Establishes cause and extent |
| A written estimate or invoice for removal and cleanup | Supports the claim amount |
| Notes on date, time and weather | Links the damage to a covered event |
| Receipts for emergency measures (tarps, board-up) | Often reimbursable |
| Contact information for the contractor | Lets the adjuster verify work |
Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
- Tarping the roof to keep water out
- Boarding broken windows
- Shutting off utilities to damaged areas
- Moving valuables away from leaks
- Documenting everything before and after
Who Is Responsible When a Neighbor's Tree Falls
The answer depends on the circumstances. If a healthy tree falls in a storm, it is often treated as an act of nature and each owner's insurance handles their own damage. If a neighbor knew a tree was dead or hazardous and did nothing, they may bear responsibility. Documentation of the tree's condition before the event — including any notices you sent — matters. Talk to your insurer and, if needed, an attorney.
Preventing a Repeat
- Have every large tree near the house assessed.
- Remove or reduce trees with structural defects.
- Prune dense crowns and dead limbs before storm season.
- Keep a record of inspections and work.
- Consider replacing oversized trees with species that fit the space.