There’s a major storm, and suddenly, a tree crashes into your house. What do you do? A fallen tree is one of those surprises no homeowner ever wants to deal with, but knowing what to do next can make all the difference.
Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide to help you handle the situation safely and efficiently.
- Call 911 if there’s immediate danger
- Remove your loved ones from harm’s way
- Record the damage thoroughly
- Notify relevant authorities and neighbours
- Contact your home insurance provider
- Contact your car insurance provider (if applicable)
- Start cleanup
- Arrange for professional tree removal and home repairs
- Manage your insurance claim and repairs
Step 1: Call 911 if there’s immediate danger
If a tree or one of its large branches falls on your house, act fast. If anyone is injured, or if there’s a fire, gas leak, downed power line, or any other life-threatening emergency, then you should call 911 right away.
Step 2: Remove your loved ones from harm’s way
Once you’ve contacted emergency services (or if there’s no immediate danger), get everyone out of the house. Keep family members and pets close and move them to a safe location, especially during a storm or at night when visibility is low.
As you do, be mindful of unstable structures, fallen debris, broken windows, as well as electrical hazards, and use flashlights as needed.
If the house is uninhabitable, arrange to stay with family or friends, or contact your insurance provider for temporary housing options.
Step 3: Record the damage thoroughly
Before beginning cleanup or contacting your insurance provider, record the damage.
Take clear photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles. Make note of the date, time, and weather conditions at the time of the incident (ex. storm, high winds, or at night), and include close-ups of anything that’s broken or damaged, like roof shingles, windows, or structural beams.
If anyone saw the tree fall, be sure to get their contact information, as they could be a helpful witness. All of this documentation will be important when filing an insurance claim.
Step 4: Notify relevant authorities and neighbours
Contact your municipality immediately if the fallen tree is blocking a road, sidewalk, or public access. They’re responsible for clearing public hazards and may send emergency crews to help.
Let your neighbours know what happened, especially if their tree was responsible for the damage.
Generally, when trees fall, the responsibility rests with:
- You, if the tree was on your property
- Your neighbours, if a tree on their property fell on yours
- The municipality, if the tree that fell on your house is located on public land or municipal property.
Step 5: Contact your home insurance provider
Once everyone is safe and you’ve documented the damage, contact your insurance provider. In Canada, home insurance typically covers damage caused by trees that fall due to storms, accidents, or other sudden and unexpected events. However, keep in mind that damage from neglect or lack of maintenance is typically not covered.
Before contacting your insurance provider, review your policy carefully for details like coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. If the cost of repairs is less than or close to your deductible, it may be more practical to pay out of pocket than to file a claim.
Report the incident to your insurer as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process, but being proactive speeds things up.
Step 6: Contact your car insurance provider (if applicable)
If the fallen tree damaged your vehicle (whether in your driveway or on the street), you’ll need to file a separate claim with your car insurance provider. Be sure to provide photos and relevant details to support your claim, as you did with your home insurance provider.
Most comprehensive car insurance covers this kind of damage, but check your policy to confirm.
Step 7: Start cleanup
Only begin cleanup when it’s safe to do so–not during a storm, at night, or if there is a risk of electrical hazards.
In some cases, it may be best to call a contractor to assist with the cleanup. If you decide to do so yourself, use the proper safety gear and tools. Don’t try to move massive trees or branches on your own–leave that to the professionals.
Step 8: Arrange for professional tree removal and home repairs
With approval from your insurance provider, hire licensed and qualified experts to safely remove the fallen tree and assess the damage. This might include:
- Tree removal services to cut and haul away the debris
- Building contractors to assess and repair any roof, wall, or structural damage to your home
Depending on your city, you may need a permit to remove the tree, especially if it’s large or protected. Check your municipality’s website before proceeding with the removal.
Step 9: Manage your insurance claim and repairs
Throughout the process, keep track of:
- All documents submitted to your insurer, such as photos, repair estimates, and proof of loss
- Communication with contractors and adjusters
- Receipts for all related expenses, including emergency expenses or temporary accommodation
- Repair estimates and final invoices
Staying organized will help ensure the claim goes smoothly and that you’re reimbursed for everything you’re entitled to.
Next steps
Dealing with a tree falling on your home can be scary, but taking the right steps will help you navigate the situation safely. In the thick of it all, remember to prioritize your safety, document everything, and seek professional help as needed.
A strong home insurance policy can ease the financial burden of unexpected events, like fallen trees, helping cover the costs of repairs, cleanup, and temporary accommodations. When the unexpected happens, having the right protection in place makes all the difference.
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