Emergency Tree Removal
Tall, stately trees add immense beauty, character, and value to any property. But with these benefits come the potential for hazards, especially during a severe weather event like a hurricane or high winds. For this reason, it’s important to know what to do if a branch or tree falls on your property.
A fallen tree can be a shocking and overwhelming event, but having a clear plan allows you to respond promptly, effectively, and, most importantly, safely. Below, we cover the essential steps for dealing with a fallen branch or tree so that you can protect your family and your home.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety Above All Else
Seeing a massive tree or branch crash down is alarming, and your first instinct might be to rush outside, but it’s crucial to proceed with caution. Remember, the actions you take in the first few hours can significantly impact your safety and the outcome of your insurance claim.
So, before you do anything else, ensure everyone is safe. Account for every person and pet in your household. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
Beware of downed power lines. If the tree has taken down any power lines, do not go near it. Assume every downed wire is live and dangerous, and know that the ground around a live wire can be energized, creating a deadly hazard zone. Keep a distance of at least 50 feet. Call 911 and your utility company immediately to report the downed lines. Do not attempt to touch the tree or any object in contact with the wires.
Finally, evacuate if necessary. If the tree has struck your home, assess the structural stability from a safe vantage point. If you hear creaking or shifting sounds, or if you see major damage to load-bearing walls or the roof, evacuate the house immediately. It’s better to be overly cautious than to risk a structural collapse.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Once you’ve confirmed everyone is safe and well and that it is safe to be outside (and away from any potential electrical hazards), your next job is to evaluate the damage. Proper documentation will help you successfully file an insurance claim, so take photos and video of the scene.
Take wide shots showing the entire tree and its position relative to your property. Then, take close-up shots of all points of impact and every bit of damage, such as damage to your roof, siding, windows, fences, decks, sheds, or any other structures. If your car was damaged, document that as well.
Don’t forget to photograph the trunk of the tree, especially if it appears rotten or hollow, as this could be relevant later.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
With your initial documentation in hand, it’s time to contact your homeowner’s insurance agent to report the incident. The sooner you start the claims process, the better. When you speak with them, ask about your specific coverage. What is your deductible? Does your policy cover the cost of tree removal? What are the limits for that coverage? Do they cover repairs to the structure?
After reporting the incident and asking your questions, follow your insurance company’s instructions. This may include getting estimates for repairs and tree removal.
Step 4: Arrange for Emergency Tree Removal
Do not attempt to remove a large tree or tree branch yourself. Operating a chainsaw is dangerous for amateurs, and a fallen tree is under immense and unpredictable tension. It can shift, roll, or snap back without warning, causing severe injury or death.
Look for a tree removal company that is licensed, fully insured (ask for proof of both liability and worker’s compensation insurance), and has a good reputation. A certified arborist will have the expertise to remove the tree safely and efficiently without causing further damage to your property.
Step 5: Get an Estimate on Repairs
Once the tree has been safely removed from your home or other structure, you can fully assess the extent of the damage. If the fallen tree has created an opening in your roof or broken a window, you’ll need to cover it with a tarp or board it up to prevent water from getting inside. These temporary repairs are usually covered by your insurance, so keep all receipts of this work.
With these temporary repairs taken care of, you should focus on getting formal estimates from reputable, licensed, and insured contractors for any further repairs. It’s always a good practice to get at least two or three different estimates. This helps ensure you are getting a fair price and allows you to compare the scope of work proposed by each contractor.
Now, provide these estimates to your insurance adjuster. They will review them as part of the claims process before authorizing the repair work.
Will Homeowner’s Insurance Cover the Cost of Tree Removal?
Coverage depends on your policy and where the tree fell. If the tree fell on a covered structure (like your house, garage, or fence), most standard policies will cover the cost of removing the tree from that structure, typically up to a limit.
If the tree simply fell in your yard without hitting anything, your policy may not cover the removal cost at all. This is often considered a general maintenance and cleanup expense.
If Your Neighbor’s Tree Fell on Your House, Who Pays for the Damage?
In most cases, your own homeowner’s insurance policy is responsible for covering the damage to your property. The event is typically considered an “act of God,” and where the tree originated doesn’t matter. You would file a claim with your insurer and pay your deductible.
The major exception is negligence. If you can prove that your neighbor knew their tree was diseased, dead, or otherwise hazardous and failed to take action, their insurance company may be held liable. However, proving negligence can be difficult and may require documentation, such as previous written communication (like a certified letter) to your neighbor about the dangerous tree.
Will Insurance Cover the Damage to Your Car?
Damage to your vehicle is covered by the comprehensive portion of your auto insurance policy, not your homeowner’s insurance. You will need to file a separate claim with your car insurance provider.
Call Heartwood Tree Care for Storm-Damage Cleanup
When a branch or tree falls on your property, prompt action is essential to keep your family safe. In order to help you address the situation appropriately, we offer emergency tree services in Charlotte, Lake Norman, and Asheville, NC. We will remove the fallen branch or tree with care and clear other organic debris from your property to prevent further damage.
Beyond dealing with the emergency, we can provide expert recommendations on ways to reduce the chances of your trees succumbing to the effects of storms. This could include strategic pruning, rootwork, or identifying and mitigating potential hazards.
If you’re facing a tree emergency or want to evaluate the general health of your trees, reach out to Heartwood Tree Care and let our experience provide you with peace of mind.