If a tree falls on your property, you may not know who to call or what to do first. A collapsed tree can pose many dangers, placing you and your property at risk. Below, our team from Wilder Tree Company, your go-to tree service in Lakeway, TX, explains the five steps you need to take immediately after a tree falls on your property.
1. Assess for Immediate Hazards
First, you need to assess all immediate hazards, risks, damage, and injuries. Downed trees can fall into power lines and hit nearby structures, so you need to determine the full extent of the damage. If you can safely do so, we recommend walking around the area to conduct a full site evaluation.
You should check specifically for downed power lines and property damage. If the tree hit a power line, you need to call emergency response teams immediately as the tree could catch on fire at any moment. If the tree hit your property, check for interior water leaks, broken windows, power outages, plumbing issues, etc., to determine what areas you need to secure or address right away.
If you cannot exit your home because of the downed tree, call 911 as soon as possible. Be sure to check for any injuries as well.
2. Call a Professional Tree Removal Company
Once you’re in a safe place and have assessed the full damage, you need to call a certified arborist in your area to schedule the tree removal service.
Many companies provide emergency tree removals around the clock to clear severe debris that’s collapsed into your property or on a power line. Regardless of the situation, you need to schedule your collapsed tree removal as soon as possible so you can begin conducting repairs afterward.
3. Secure Your Home
After speaking with the tree removal company, spend time securing your home. For example, if the collapsed tree broke through any windows or your roof, you should board up the areas in the meantime as you await the full repairs. You can also conduct basic yard maintenance, clearing up some of the debris so you can access your front door, driveway, etc.
4. Contact Your Homeowners Insurance
Once you have the time, open an insurance claim for your storm damage. Many home insurance policies will cover some or all of the damage relating to the tree fall. The tree service company you choose may be able to work with your insurer to make the claims process a bit easier as well.
5. Make Plans for Tree Removal Day
Finally, we recommend preparing for your scheduled tree removal by parking your vehicles elsewhere (if you can) so they’re out of the way. You can also plan to be out of the house for the day if you’d like, as some of the equipment can be noisy.
Are You Looking for Certified Arborists in Lakeway?
Now that you know how to respond to a collapsed tree, contact us at (512) 729-8733 to schedule your tree removal with Wilder Tree Company.