What to Do Immediately When a Tree Falls on Your Roof

Your worst nightmare can become a sudden reality when a tree falls on your roof.

Whether it’s a massive oak that has gone through the roof or a smaller branch that hit the roof during a storm, the consequences can be alarming and immediate.

At BRH Enterprises LLC, we believe all homeowners should be prepared to handle roofing emergencies. We offer residential roofing services, including emergency responses, in Mayville, WI, and the surrounding areas. Just give us a call at (920) 249-4228.

In this complete guide, we will walk you through what to do when a tree falls on your roof, changing a potentially catastrophic moment into a manageable process.

How Can Trees Damage Your Roof?

Trees are a major part of our environment, but they can create dangerous situations for roofs. 

When a tree falls on the roof, it often leads to immediate structural damage requiring urgent roof repair. Trees can also gradually impact the condition of your home. Even before a catastrophic fall, trees can harm your roof through overhanging branches that scrape shingles or drop debris. They can also cause less obvious issues, such as mold or mildew growth in shaded areas and insect damage.

Weather is another important thing that can cause tree damage to the roof. Strong storms with highspeed winds can send large branches crashing down or uproot entire trees. Also, trees with weak roots are more likely to fall on your roof. 

Regular tree maintenance is important to prevent roof damage. Watch for warning signs like dead branches, leaning trunks, or visible decay.

If you spot these issues, contact a professional. Remember, preventive tree care costs far less than roof repair after tree damage occurs.

What Are The Immediate Steps To Take When a Big Tree Falls On Your Roof?

When a tree falls directly on your roofing system, here are emergency steps to take.

#1 Prioritize Safety Above All

The moment a tree falls on a house, get all your family members and pets out of your home immediately. Avoid re-entering your home under any circumstances and contact emergency roofing services. Call 911 if you notice any structural compromises, electrical hazards, potential gas line damage, or visible fire or smoke.

#2 Assess And Document The Damage

While safety remains the top priority, assessing and documenting the tree damage is also important. It is better to do this safely under the supervision of your roofer. 

Capture multiple angles of the tree on the roof, and photograph both external and internal damage. Record the date, time, and weather conditions for the insurance company. 

#3 Contact Your Insurance Company

After writing down all the records, create a detailed log of all observations. Note down all the potential causes of the tree fall and talk to your insurance company to start the claim process.

What Damage Is Generally Covered Under An Insurance Policy?

When a tree falls on your roofing system, insurance coverage generally includes:

👉 Structural damage to your home

👉 Damage to personal property inside

👉 Tree removal costs

👉 Temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable

👉 Emergency repairs to prevent further damage

Remember: Coverage can vary if the tree fell due to negligence rather than weather events. That’s why proper tree maintenance is very important for protecting your home and ensuring a smooth insurance claim process. It is best to read your insurance policy to avoid miscommunication later. 

What Not To Do When A Tree Falls On Your Roof

When a tree falls on a house, your instinct might be to act immediately, but some actions can worsen the situation or put you in danger.

👉 Avoid DIY Removal: A fallen tree can be unstable and dangerous to handle without professional equipment and expertise.

👉 Don’t Climb on the Roof: The roof structure might be compromised, making it unsafe.

👉 Stay Away from Electrical Lines: If the tree has brought down power lines, avoid contact and call your utility company immediately.

👉 Don’t Delay Action: Promptly contacting professionals reduces further risks, such as water damage from a broken roof.

How To Prevent The Risk Of Tree Damage To Your Roof? 

Preventing tree damage to your roof begins with regular maintenance and awareness. By addressing issues with nearby trees, you can save yourself from major repairs later.

👉 Inspect Trees Regularly: Watch for dead branches, leaning trunks, and signs of disease or decay. These are indicators that a tree may be at risk of falling.

👉 Trim Overhanging Branches: Branches that scrape against your shingles can gradually cause wear and tear, leading to leaks.

👉 Hire an Arborist: A professional arborist can assess your trees’ health and recommend measures to prevent them from going through the roof during a storm.

👉 Consider Storm-Proofing Measures: Strengthen your property by maintaining a safe distance between trees and the house.

Can You Use An Emergency Roof Tarp If A Tree Falls On A Roof?

When your roof is unexpectedly damaged, temporary tarps provide very important protection against further deterioration.

Professional roofers strategically place these protective barriers over the roof to shield homes from rain, debris, and potential structural compromise, especially in scenarios like storm damage from fallen trees.

By quickly covering compromised areas, tarps prevent water infiltration that could lead to extensive interior damage, mold growth, and costly structural repairs. 

These emergency coverings serve as an important first defense, providing you with valuable time to arrange permanent roof restoration and decreasing the risk of further damage to your property’s integrity and living spaces.

Why Is It A Bad Idea To Ignore Or Delay the Repair Process When A Tree Hits Your Roof?

Sometimes, you might not notice the damage caused by a fallen tree on your roofing system, as it might not be visible from the ground. However, this does not mean you can simply ignore the problem. 

We recommend not ignoring or delaying repairs as this can lead to major problems, expensive future repairs, and safety concerns for you and your family. 

Hire a professional roofer to inspect your roof thoroughly after the incident. If you have tree-related damage on your roof in Mayville, WI, and the surrounding areas, schedule a free roof inspection today. 

Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection In Wisconsin

At BRH Enterprises LLC, we are your local roofers. We provide residential and emergency roof repairs in Mayville and the surrounding regions of Wisconsin. Our team of certified roofers has experience, expertise, and knowledge of different types of roof damage.

We only use top-quality roofing materials and industry-certified practices to make sure your roof is restored to its pre-damage condition. For a no-obligation discussion on your roof’s existing condition, or to schedule a free roof inspection, feel free to call us today at (920) 249-4228.

Frequently Asked Questions