What You Need To Do If A Tree Falls On Your Home
Posted on: 29 July 2015
Whether it's a violent summer thunderstorm or a winter blizzard that causes the damage, the sickening crack of a falling tree near your home is a fearful sound. If a tree falls on your house – especially when you're still in it – it's important that you know what to do so that you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe. This guide can help guide you through the process.
Survey the Damage
Your first goal is to make sure the tree didn't not bring down any power lines with it. If the power went out in your home at the same time the tree fell, the tree is likely tied up in the lines somewhere. Before stepping outside, try and get a view of the tree through a window. If you see sparks or a fire, leave the property immediately from an exit as far from the damage as possible and contact the power company and the fire department.
If the damage is minimal and doesn't include the electricity, you can stay in the home if you feel safe. Generally, if the damage appears to only have occurred to the outside, such as to the roof or eaves of your house, and there is no visible damage inside, you can stay in your home. Just avoid the area where the tree is resting on the house, since this could pose a hazard.
Document The Damage
Once the area is secured by the power company or fire department, if necessary, take some time to document the damage. A quick video or a few pictures from all angles is all that is necessary. You may need to show this documentation later when making your insurance claim.
Call Your Insurance Company
Your home insurance company is the second call you make, after notifying emergency services if necessary. You must let them know of the damage as soon as possible, so they can begin your claim paperwork and send out an adjuster to determine the damage and claim amount.
Secure Emergency Tree and Repair Services
The insurance company may recommend a tree service company, or they may allow you to pick your own. Once you know which, you can begin calling companies like Arborist Services LLC to come out and bid on the tree removal. Not only will the service remove the offending tree, they can also inspect your property to make sure there are no other dangerous trees nearby.
Once the tree is gone, you can bring in the repair companies to fix your home. If you are choosing the company, you will once again want to get bids so you can find the best price. You will then submit the invoices to your insurance company for payment or reimbursement.
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