Although you would never dream of facing such a dilemma, the chances of a tree falling on your roof are not as slim as you might think. Everything from heavy storms and strong winds, to auto accidents, pest infestations, and more, can cause trees to fall over. The damages that result from a fallen tree can vary depending on several factors, but they are generally very costly and very dangerous. For this reason and more, it is vital to take action right away if a tree ever does fall on your roof. In fact, if this has just happened to you, continue reading to learn what steps to take next.
The First Steps
As soon as a tree falls on your roof, the first thing you want to do is immediately check if anyone was hurt. Be sure to still keep clear of the tree, as it may not be entirely supported, and could move shift and fall some more. If anyone was injured, call an ambulance to your location. Even if it is just a minor bump on the head, be sure to seek medical attention. Head injuries can start off small and develop into major injuries later on. Once you have accounted for everyone and made sure there were no injuries, you can move forward with the next steps.
The Next Steps
After you have addressed injuries, it is important to clear away from the hazard area. Be sure to keep everyone around you at a safe distance. With everyone in a safe place, you can then check the power lines. If a tree has fallen on any power lines, transformers, or electrical boxes, you will need to contact your electrical company and notify them of the damage. Also be sure to keep a safe distance from any damaged electrical equipment, especially power lines.
After you have contacted your electrical company, it is time to contact your home owners’ insurance carrier. You will need to tell them what happened and begin the claim process. They will then send out an adjuster to your property to assess the damage and file your claim. While you are waiting for the adjuster, it is wise to document the damage on your own. Take video and pictures of the tree and the damage it caused, both inside and out. But be sure you keep a safe distance from the accident area. It also helps to take down notes.
Last Steps
Contact a local tree removal company to remove the tree from your roof. Never attempt to do this yourself. Once the tree is gone, you are ready for your final step. Contact a roofing company for professional roof repair service. Choose a roof repair company that can work alongside your home owners’ insurance company to make the process easier and more cost-effective.