A Tree Fell on Your House — Here’s Exactly What to Do

It’s 2 a.m., the wind is howling, and there’s a tree through the roof. Here’s exactly what to do — in order — to stay safe and protect your claim.

1. Get everyone out and away

Leave the affected part of the house. A partially-fallen tree can shift, and a damaged roof or ceiling can come down. Account for everyone, including pets.

2. Treat every downed line as live

If the tree took down a power line — or is tangled in one — stay far back and call 911 and your utility. Never touch the tree or approach the line. This is the single most dangerous part of any tree-on-house situation.

3. Call for emergency tree removal

You want an insured crew that can respond 24/7, stabilize the tree, and get it off the structure without causing more damage. This is not a chainsaw-and-a-ladder job — a tree under load can spring or roll violently when cut wrong.

4. Document everything for insurance

Once you’re safe, photograph the damage from several angles before anything is moved — the tree, the roof, any interior damage, and any belongings affected. This is what your claim rests on.

5. Make reasonable temporary repairs

Most homeowner policies expect you to prevent further damage — tarping an open roof, for example. Keep receipts. Don’t make permanent repairs until the adjuster has seen it.

6. Call your insurer

Homeowner’s insurance typically covers tree removal and repair when a tree hits a covered structure. A good emergency tree company will document the job and work directly with your adjuster to make the claim painless.

What not to do

• Don’t climb on a damaged roof.
• Don’t try to cut a tree that’s under tension or load.
• Don’t go near any line, ever.
• Don’t throw anything away before it’s photographed.