Having trees on our properties provides us with many benefits, from improved curb appeal to providing shade and helping lower utility bills. But all trees come with a level of risk if they are near your home.
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Sometimes, accidents happen—especially during severe storms. When the unexpected happens, like a tree falling on your home, it’s crucial to have a plan.
Leave The House And Get To A Safe Area
The first thing you and your family should do if a tree falls on your house is leave and get to a safe area. It’s always a good idea to have an evacuation plan in place in an emergency like this. Hence, everyone knows where to meet up safely.
Call 911
Once everyone is safe, it’s time to call 911 and report the accident. Emergency services will send out a crew to make sure your home is safe and take a report. If any power lines have been damaged, your power company should also be notified so they can turn off the power and repair the lines.
Call Your Insurance Company
Next, call your insurance company to discuss your coverage. Coverage will vary depending on whether the tree was on your property or your neighbor’s property, and what condition the tree was prior to its failure.
Remember that as the property owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure that your trees are safe and the property has an acceptable level of risk. Caring for your trees also helps keep you safe from liability should the tree fall and damage property or injure someone. Homeowners need to take reasonable steps to inspect their trees and keep people and property safe.
Depending on your insurance, they may send out a contractor to inspect the damage and get estimates for work that may be required to clear tree debris. Others may ask you to solicit bids for the tree work.
Take Photographs And Videos
Whenever an accident like this happens, it’s essential to take photographs and videos for your records. This will help with your insurance claims and provide accurate documentation. Remember to document both inside and outside of the house. If you have the opportunity to get professional quality photography, it could be
vital evidence for your claim.
Call Your Trusted Tree Care Company
In the case of a tree falling on your home, call your trusted tree care company to remove it safely. Hansen’s Tree Service is fully insured and we receive many referrals from insurance companies. Our ISA Certified Arborists are trained to remove toppled trees and broken limbs safely. If needed, our expert consultants can also provide expert testimony for your insurance claims.
We are available 24/7 for emergency services in the event of tree failure and work hard to minimize damage at every level, keeping your home and your family safe.