It’s unlike anything you have ever heard. A sudden sound is heard, followed by cracking plywood and creaking gutters. It’s possible to believe that a tree just fell on your home. You’re likely trying to escape the house before it enters your roof. This is a smart move. This structure is probably not safe anymore.
Once you have recovered from the shock, reality sets in. Then comes the flood of questions: “What should we do now?”
It’s not unusual to feel lost in such a situation. Nobody plans to see their home destroyed like this.
There are many things to think about when it comes to insurance claims and the repair of damage caused by a fallen tree. Let’s take a look at what to do if a tree falls onto your roof.
Evacuate your home
Trees that fall on your roof can cause more damage than your shingles. It can cause structural damage, much like a house fire. The ceiling may cave in, windows could shatter, or walls may collapse.
It is unsafe to live in your home any longer, so it is best to move your family to a safer location. You could use a hotel or the home of a family member. You might be tempted to take your belongings with you, but depending on the extent of the damage, this may not be possible.
In such situations, it is a good idea to have a pre-prepared emergency bag. If you are ever forced to evacuate your home due to an emergency, you can prepare a small bag with essential items for each member of your household.
It’s a good idea to lock your doors before you leave so thieves and vandals can’t get into your home.
Call 9-1-1
When you have found safety, dial 9-1-1 or the emergency services to get help. To manage the situation, you will likely need the police, fire, and medical departments.
First responders will evaluate the danger posed by the fallen tree and then take appropriate action. They will ensure that no one is trapped in the house, and they will assist anyone who requires medical attention.
A fallen tree can sometimes lead to fires, power line downs, and other problems. The local emergency services will need to be notified of the situation and take control of any additional damage. They might also be required to clean up hazardous materials, place caution tape around your house, or block roads and sidewalks.
Call your insurance company
After the situation has been handled safely, you can now start to fix the problem. Your insurance company can help you quickly get the money to fix your roof.
Report the damage
First, answer the question, “What happened?” Before your insurance company can discuss coverage, they will need more information.
The cause of the damage will determine your coverage. Most homeowners insurance policies would cover tree damage to your home if it were caused by hailstorms, rain, lightning, or the weight of snow or ice on branches. Standard policies usually cover tree damage caused by vandalism or aircraft.
If your insurance company can show that the tree was damaged by negligence, they will usually not cover it. It’s important to inspect and/or remove any tree that has a problem, such as a rotten trunk, weak roots, or precarious branches. Your insurance company will usually hold you responsible for any damages if you are aware of the problem but do not prevent it from happening.
Additionally, homeowner’s insurance won’t cover damage to trees that have fallen due to earthquakes or floods. For this, you will need flood or earthquake insurance.
What if it were the neighbor’s?
This question is common in many communities. Who is responsible if a neighbor’s tree falls on your home?
Most of the time, even if the tree fell on your neighbor’s land, your insurance will still cover any damage to your home. If your neighbor fails to prevent an accident (e.g., Sometimes, if your neighbor fails to avoid an accident (i.e., having a tree fall on your property), you may be eligible for reimbursement from your insurance company. This is often difficult to prove without documentation and photos of the damage done before the accident.
It is always a good idea for you to be prepared in case of a fallen tree. Take photos and take detailed notes if you see a neighbor with a fallen tree or limb. Send them an email or postal mail request. Keep copies for your records. These can be presented to your insurance company later if necessary.
Claim
After you have a clear understanding of your insurance coverage and your deductible for the incident, it is possible to file a claim. It is best to make sure you do it. Most likely, filing a claim will save you money on costly repairs. However, filing too many insurance claims in a short time frame can increase your monthly premiums. You should also consider the cost of any options.
Roof repair is the most important thing. Your homeowner’s policy may cover some roof repairs. If the damage isn’t severe, your homeowner’s insurance might only cover part of a complete roof replacement.
If the tree is still leaning against your home, it will likely be covered by your policy. If the tree is still in your yard or another area not covered by your homeowner’s insurance (including your car), then tree removal could be out of pocket or left up to your other insurance policies (e.g. automotive).
You may also be covered in certain cases for your shed, wheelchair-accessible ramps and railings, or plant damage if you have greenery that adds value to your property.
Call a reputable roofing company
The damage caused by a fallen tree to your roof is almost always severe. Tree damage, unlike hail damage which can sometimes be difficult to see and assess, will almost certainly cause damage to a significant portion of your roof. After you have taken care of your insurance, it is time to call a trusted roofing company for an inspection and roof repair.
What damage can a tree do?
A fallen tree could cause damage to your roof. Broken windows, cracked siding, skylights, foundation damage, and other structural issues are all possible. While your roofing contractor might be able to assist with some of these roof repairs, you may need to call another professional.
Sometimes, a fallen branch or tree could puncture your roof. These holes can sometimes penetrate the living space below and go beyond the plywood beneath the shingles. A tree can also cause damage to your gutters or downspouts.
Even if your roof isn’t damaged, there will be minor damage. Even tiny dents, bend, or cracks in your roofing shingles could allow rain, wind, and hail to deteriorate your roof and reduce its lifespan rapidly.
Even if a stick is not large enough to impact your roof, it can cause granules (embedded minerals) to fall off your shingles. Although this isn’t always an immediate problem, replacing your shingles as soon as possible is essential. Granules help protect roofing materials from the sun. They protect your roof from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.
Most roofing companies will need to replace your shingles and sections of plywood. If your roof is over 14 years old, it may be necessary to replace it. Inspecting your roof before you start any repairs is a brilliant idea.
The ideal scenario for roof repair
You want to have the job done right by professionals when you work on your roof. It is there to protect your home and you from the elements.
It can be stressful to have a tree fall on your home. You may feel tempted to hire the cheapest roofing contractor. This is not always the best option. Poor-quality repairs are not a wise investment in your property’s long-term future. You may have to do it again soon if it’s not done correctly.
We know what to look out for in roofing. These are the four essential elements for a quality roof job.
Quality work
You want the best when you hire a roofing contractor to repair tree damage. Your roof’s structural integrity should be a top priority.
Proper materials
Your new roof should be made from the most cost-effective materials available for your budget and location. The roofing contractor will advise you about each material’s aesthetic and protective value. You want the new shingles to complement the existing roof material. It should look as if the accident never happened once it is fixed.
A new roof can also be an asset to your house. A new roof can increase the value of your home by improving its appraisal value. It should be done correctly and with better materials. It is essential to leave your roof in a better condition than before you replace it.
Efficiency
It will be difficult to leave your home while you are repairing it. The ideal roof job will be done quickly and still produce high-quality work. This will allow you to return quickly to your home and continue living your life.
Unexpected events, such as a tree falling on your roof can cause panic and anxiety. You won’t be prepared until you are in the middle of the situation.
Having the proper knowledge and preparation for any eventualities is essential. This will allow you to approach insurance and repair with confidence. You will need a trustworthy and friendly roofing company to help you see the project through.
Call MB Roofing Pros now if you need a roofing company to help you with your roofing concerns.
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MB Roofing Pros
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
843-492-0778
http://roofing-myrtlebeach.com/
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