Homeowner guide
A Tree Fell on Your Roof: What to Do First
When a tree or large limb lands on your house, the first hours matter. Here is the order to follow, from keeping everyone safe to getting the roof protected and repaired.
The short answer: Homeowners usually pay for a roof with savings, a home equity loan or line of credit, a personal loan, financing offered through the roofing company, or an insurance payout when the damage is covered. The right choice depends on the total cost of borrowing, not the monthly payment, so compare the interest rate, fees and payoff terms in writing before you commit.
Safety first
If anyone is hurt, call 911. If you see a downed power line, stay away from it and from anything touching it, and call your utility and 911. If the house shows signs of structural damage such as sagging ceilings, cracked walls or doors that will not open, leave the building until it is checked. Do not go on the roof or try to move a large tree yourself.
Document the damage
Once it is safe, take photos and video of the tree, the roof from the ground, any interior damage and the surrounding property. Write down the date and time. This record helps with your insurance claim. Do not throw away damaged materials until your insurer has seen them.
Call your insurance company
Report the damage as soon as you can and ask what your policy covers. Coverage for tree damage to a home and for tree removal varies by policy, so ask your insurer directly. Ask about your deductible and any limits on tree removal costs. Our guides on roof insurance claims and actual cash value vs replacement cost explain how payouts work.
Protect the roof from more damage
Water damage often costs more than the impact itself. A roofer can place a temporary tarp or cover over the damaged area. This is not a permanent fix, but it keeps rain and snow out until repairs can be made. See our pages on roof tarping and emergency roof repair. Keep receipts for temporary repairs, since insurers often reimburse reasonable emergency costs when a claim is covered.
Tree removal and roof repair
A tree that is resting on the roof may need to be removed by a qualified tree service with the right equipment before the roof can be repaired. Removing it incorrectly can cause more damage or injury. Ask your insurer how removal is handled, and coordinate the timing between the tree crew and the roofer.
What the repair may involve
Depending on the impact, repairs can range from replacing shingles and flashing to rebuilding damaged decking, rafters or trusses. A roofer or contractor should inspect the structure underneath, not just the surface. Ask for the scope and price in writing. Our repair vs replacement guide helps you decide when a partial repair makes sense.
Avoid storm-chaser scams
After storms, door-knockers often appear. Ask for references and proof of insurance, and get a written estimate. Do not sign over your insurance claim or pay the full amount up front. Read our guide on storm-chaser roofing scams.
Tree on roof questions
Should I call my insurance or a roofer first?
Make sure everyone is safe first. Then call your insurer to open the claim, and a roofer to protect the roof from more water.
Does insurance pay for tree removal?
It depends on your policy and on whether the tree damaged a covered structure. Ask your insurer about coverage and limits.
Can I tarp the roof myself?
It is risky. A damaged roof may not be safe to walk on. A roofer can place a tarp securely.
Should I stay in the house?
Not if there are signs of structural damage. Have the house checked before you go back inside.
How long do I have to report the damage?
Policies often require prompt notice. Contact your insurer as soon as you can and check your policy for deadlines.
Related:
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