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What Should I Do After a Tree Falls on My House?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

Check for Immediate Danger

Your first step is to get everyone out of the house if the tree has broken through a roof, wall, or window. If you hear hissing, smell gas, or see a downed power line, leave right away and call 911 from a safe distance. Do not go back inside until emergency responders say it is safe.

If the tree is resting on the roof but the house seems stable, you can stay inside, but keep away from the impacted area. Water may be leaking in, and the structure could shift. Have a neighbor watch for new cracks or sagging while you figure out next steps.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of the tree, the roof, the interior, and any personal belongings that were damaged. Capture wide shots and close-ups, and include a ruler or a common object for scale. This record helps your insurance company understand the extent of the loss.

Write down the date and time of the incident, and note any weather conditions like heavy rain or wind. If the tree came from a neighbor's yard, note that too, but do not assume liability. Your insurance company will sort out who is responsible.

  • Take photos before any cleanup
  • Note the time and weather
  • List damaged items
  • Keep receipts for emergency repairs
  • Do not throw away damaged items yet

Temporarily Protect Your Home

If it is safe to do so, cover any holes in the roof with a tarp to keep more water out. Water from rain can worsen the damage and lead to mold. Use plywood to board up broken windows. These temporary steps can prevent additional issues.

Be careful when climbing on a ladder near the tree. The tree can shift or roll, and wet surfaces are slippery. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, wait for a professional. Your goal is to reduce further water entry, not to risk your safety.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance company as soon as you can to report the claim. They will tell you what documentation they need and whether they will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

Ask about coverage for temporary housing if the house is not livable, and keep all receipts for hotels, meals, and emergency repairs. Your insurance company may also cover the cost of removing the tree, but that depends on your policy. Do not start permanent repairs until the adjuster has seen the damage.

Get Professional Help for Repairs

Tree damage often involves structural issues, so have a qualified professional inspect the roof, walls, and foundation before any permanent repair. A structural engineer or a building inspector can tell you if the house is safe. Water damage may also require specialized drying and dehumidification.

Local water damage pros can extract water from carpets and walls, and they can set up drying equipment to prevent mold. If the tree broke through the roof, you may need a roofer for the exterior and a drywall professional for the interior. In Kirkland, the mild marine climate with wet winters and dry summers means moisture can linger, so acting quickly helps.

  • Inspect for structural cracks
  • Check for water in walls and floors
  • Dry out wet areas within 48 hours
  • Remove wet insulation and drywall
  • Watch for mold growth

Talk to someone now

Call (425) 406-3256 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.

Call Now (425) 406-3256

Frequently asked questions

Should I remove the tree myself?

Only if it is small and you have the right tools. A large tree can weigh thousands of pounds and may be under tension. Cutting it wrong can cause it to fall on you or damage the house more. Hire a professional tree service for large trees.

Will my insurance cover the damage?

It depends on your policy and the cause. Some homeowners policies cover tree damage from wind or storms, but not always if the tree was dead or poorly maintained. Check your policy and talk to your insurance company. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

How long do I have to file a claim?

File as soon as possible, ideally within a few days. Waiting too long can make it harder to prove the damage and may delay repairs. Your insurance company can tell you about deadlines, but acting quickly protects your claim and prevents further damage.

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