When you have a tree on your property, it can do wonders in improving your home’s landscaping and overall curb appeal. Unfortunately, according to roof repair pros, it can also be a hazard to your home and roofing system during the most unexpected of times. For instance, if there’s a particularly strong storm in your area, the tree could fall on your roof. Once this happens, there are some certain steps that you need to take once it’s safe to venture outdoors.
Here are the five steps a homeowner should do if a tree falls on your home roofing system.
1. Assess and Document the Damage
When a tree falls on your roof due to a strong storm or wood rot, one of the first things that you should do is get out of the house once it’s safe. Once you’ve done so, be sure to assess the damage to see how bad it is. While you’re doing so, be sure to document the damage by taking photos or videos from a safe distance as well. That way, you’ll have some documentation that you can give to your insurance providers.
2. Check If Electrical Lines are Involved When a Tree Falls
While you’re assessing and documenting the damage that the tree caused your roof, check and see if electrical lines are involved as well. By doing so, you’ll be able to determine if you need to call your electrical company to rectify the issue.
3. Call Emergency Services for Fallen Trees
If a tree falls on your roof, a roofing contractor will not recommend trying to remove the tree on your own. Doing so can be hazardous. Instead, call emergency services like the fire brigade so they can get the fallen tree out of the way for you.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider When a Tree Falls on Your Property
After you’ve done the aforementioned steps, it’s highly recommended that you contact your insurance provider immediately. That way, you can say you intend to make a claim and they’ll even cover the fallen tree’s removal and emergency repair procedures for your roof.
5. Call a Roofing Contractor to Help With Fallen Trees
Finally, you should also call an expert roofer to your home if a tree falls on your roof as they can help determine just how extensive the damage is and tell you the estimated cost of repairs or replacement.
