A tree fell on your house: does homeowners insurance cover it, and what do you do first?
Short answer. Homeowners insurance usually covers a tree that falls on your house, including removing it from the structure and repairing the roof and interior. The first steps are safety, photos, a tree service to lift it off, an emergency tarp, and a prompt report to your insurer with the date and cause.
The first hour
- Get everyone out of rooms under the impact. Ceilings and framing can fail after the fact.
- Stay away from power lines. Call the utility if any are down or touching the tree.
- Shut off gas if you smell it, and leave.
- Photograph and video from every angle outside and inside, including the stump or break point.
The first day
- Call a tree service experienced with trees on structures. Large trees may need a crane. Removing the tree from the house is part of the covered claim.
- Get the roof tarped as soon as the tree is off. See emergency tarping.
- Report the claim. Give the date, the storm and photos. Ask whether an adjuster or engineer will inspect before the structural repair.
- Start drying any wet interior areas.
What the claim should include
- Tree removal from the structure and crane costs
- Framing repair: rafters, trusses, ceiling joists
- Decking and roofing for the damaged area, or more if matching and repairability require it
- Gutters, fascia and soffit
- Interior drywall, insulation, paint and contents
- Additional living expense if you cannot stay in the house
If the framing is cracked, a structural repair plan may be required by the building department. See how to file a roof claim.