A tree suddenly falling on your property during a storm can be a huge shock. You may be unsure what steps to take next to protect your property and mitigate the damage.
This guide shares what to do after a tree falls in a storm. The most important step is to schedule arborist services in Leiper’s Fork, TN, to remove the fallen tree and restore your property to safety.
1. Safely Inspect the Damage and Take Photos
Before approaching the fallen tree, ensure that it has not come into contact with any powerlines or electrical structures. If it has, call your electric company to turn off power to that line.
If you can safely do so, take photos of the fallen tree and inspect the severity of the damage. In many storm situations, homeowners also deal with uprooted trees, which can shift or roll, so keeping a safe distance is essential.
If you see immediate hazards, contact a tree company right away and wait for their arrival from a safe location.
2. Call Your Insurance Company
Storm damage is often covered by homeowners’ insurance. Contacting your insurance company can help you determine whether the repairs may be covered by insurance and whether you should file a claim.
If you do file a homeowners’ insurance claim, the photos you took of the damage will come in handy. They can help show the impact of the fallen tree before taking any efforts to mitigate the tree hazard.
3. Contact a Leiper’s Fork Tree Company
Next, call a tree company to come to your property and remove the fallen tree. Many arborists provide 24/7 emergency services. You should assess whether the tree poses an immediate hazard and, if so, take advantage of these services.
Otherwise, you can contact a company during normal business hours to schedule service. Your insurance carrier may require you to use a specific company or choose from a list of approved arborists.
A tree professional will come to your property to perform a storm damage assessment and create an action plan to safely remove the tree. This often involves cutting the trunk into sections and hauling them away. Some tree services even provide insurance claim assistance by communicating directly with your insurance provider about the progress of the damage mitigation.
4. Schedule Property Repairs
After removal, you can proceed with repairs to any other areas of your property that were damaged by the fallen tree, such as the roof or siding. Again, your insurance company may require you to use a certain company for these repairs.
Seek Emergency Tree Services From Franklin Tree Service
Now that you know the best course of action after a tree falls in a storm, you can contact a tree service to protect and restore your property. Franklin Tree Service provides emergency tree service in Leiper’s Fork, TN, and communicates directly with insurance companies for your convenience.
Learn the warning signs of a failing tree to prevent future tree damage. Then, contact us at 615-866-7056 to speak with an arborist or schedule service.