As a homeowner, a tree falling on your roof is a nightmare scenario. Storms, high winds, or even just an aging tree can cause devastating and expensive damage. In fact, the Insurance Information Institute reports that wind and hail alone account for nearly 40% of all U.S. homeowners insurance claims.

Worse yet, roof claims make up about 30% of all U.S. property insurance losses, and trees are a major culprit. Severe weather events, a major cause of tree-related claims, have increased by a staggering 50% over the past decade.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to take when dealing with roof repair from tree falling damage, ensuring that your home is protected and restored to its former glory.

Signs of Roof Damage from Trees

Tree damage to your roof can range from minor to severe. In states like Texas, homeowners face particular risks due to our weather patterns and tree types. Here are some common signs to look out for:

What to Do If a Tree Fell on Your Roof: 5 Easy Steps

The National Storm Damage Center reports a shocking truth: falling trees cause over $1 billion in damage to U.S. homes every year. If a tree damages your roof, these three steps are crucial to protect yourself and start the repair process:

1. Assess the Situation and Ensure Safety

As soon as you realize a tree has fallen on your roof, safety is your top priority. If the damage looks severe or you suspect the structure is compromised, leave the house immediately and contact emergency services. Also, if you see downed power lines or any fire risk, call your local fire department and utility company. Once it's safe to approach, you can start assessing the damage.

Before starting any repairs, it's vital to document the damage thoroughly. Take photos and videos of the fallen tree, the damaged roof, and any other affected areas of your house. The Insurance Information Institute stresses the importance of doing this as soon as it's safe.  Capture different angles, close-ups, and wide shots that show the full extent of the problem. This evidence will be crucial for your insurance claim and discussions with your roofer.

2. Document Everything for Insurance

Before you start any roof repair process, it's crucial to document the damage thoroughly. Take pictures of the fallen tree, the damaged roof, and any other affected areas of your property. These photos will serve as evidence when filing an insurance claim and communicating with your local roofing contractor.

The Insurance Information Institute stresses the importance of doing this as soon as it's safe.  Capture different angles, close-ups, and wide shots that show the full extent of the problem. This evidence will be crucial for your insurance claim and discussions with your roofer.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

After documenting the damage, reach out to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most homeowner's policies cover damage from fallen trees, though it's always best to double-check your specific coverage. Your insurer will likely send an adjuster to assess the situation and determine the repair or replacement costs.

It's helpful to know that the Insurance Information Institute reports the average wind and hail claim for homeowners is around $11,200. Be ready to share your photos and a detailed account of the tree incident – this will help speed up the claims process.

4. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

Repairing roof damage from a fallen tree is a job best left to the experts. Look for a reputable local roofer who has experience specifically with tree and storm damage. A skilled company like Built to Last Roofing can assess your roof's overall condition, spot any hidden damage, and recommend the best approach – whether that's targeted repairs or a full replacement.

5. Remove the Tree and Debris

Before any roof repairs start, the tree and debris need to be safely cleared away. For larger trees or complex situations, it's usually necessary to hire a professional tree removal service. The average cost for this ranges from $500 to $1,500, depending on the tree's size and location.  If you feel confident tackling a smaller tree yourself, use extreme caution and take steps to avoid any further damage to your roof or property.

The Roof Repair Process

Once the tree and debris are safely cleared, your roofing contractor can begin restoring your roof. The extent of the damage will dictate whether repairs are enough or if a full replacement is a better long-term solution. The average roof repair cost falls between $350 and $1,500.

Here's what to expect:

Preventing Future Tree Damage to Your Roof

Once your roof is restored, take proactive steps to prevent future problems and minimize the risk from trees: