Everyone has seen the awe-inspiring images of huge trees falling in hurricanes, tornadoes, and localized severe thunderstorms. But a tree falling down can happen to any of us, not just the big ones. And it isn’t just the height that causes a tree to fall; it can also be the structural damage, foundation problems, and roof problems caused by the fallen tree. This is why it’s important to keep an eye on your neighbors’ and your own trees in order to know when it’s time to call a professional for tree removal or to get them taken care of before they become a problem.
A big reason why a tree falls during a storm or high winds is because of the root system. Whether it’s due to drought stress, disease, or just the age of a tree, a root system that can’t absorb water, nutrients, or anchor a tree will fail. Oftentimes the roots of a tree can be damaged by construction in the surrounding area, driveways, sidewalks, or even by lawn mowers that are too close to the roots. Also, soil that has been compacted will smother the root system and make it difficult for a tree to survive.
Another sign of a failing tree tree falling down is if it starts shedding branches and leaves. This is a way that a tree signals that it’s getting too old and can no longer support itself. Sometimes, trees will even start to rot and decay which will weaken it further.
In addition to these signs, you may notice that a tree is leaning to one side or has become very misshapen. This could indicate a number of things including root or wind damage, rot, and internal cracks. It’s always best to hire a tree surgeon to take a look at any tree you are worried about and determine the extent of its damage, as well as what to do next.
After a tree has fallen on your house, the first thing you need to do is ensure that your family and pets are safe. This includes making sure that they are in a safe place in your house away from the damaged part of the structure. It is also important to assess the situation and make sure that there are no down power lines. If there are, you should treat them like live wires and stay far away from them until they can be addressed by the proper authorities.
After you’ve made sure that you are safe, you should call your insurance company to report the damage. They will then work with you to get the damaged area of your house fixed as soon as possible. It’s very important to contact an experienced public adjuster who can advocate on your behalf and help you file and receive the full amount of coverage from your homeowners’ insurance company.