If It Just Happened, Do These 5 Steps
A tree on your roof turns a normal day into a crisis fast. Whether it rests on the shingles or went through the roof, take a breath. Do these steps in order.
If everyone is safe, call Tar Hill for 24/7 emergency tree removal in Fayetteville while you stay clear of the tree.
- Check the people, not the roof. If anyone is hurt or trapped, call 911 first. Get everyone out if the tree is still leaning or moving. Use a door far from the tree. Do not go back for pets or belongings if the house feels unsafe.
- Watch for power lines and gas. Leave at once if a line is down or touching the tree. Do the same if you smell gas. Call 911 and the utility company from a safe spot. Never touch the tree, fence, car, or wet ground near a downed line.
- Keep everyone well back. A cracked trunk can shift with no warning. So can limbs that look stuck. Do not brace the tree, climb it, or walk beneath it.
- Call Tar Hill at (910) 725-5476. Tell us what fell and what it is touching. A tree on a house is not a safe do-it-yourself job.
- Take photos from the ground. Get wide shots of the tree, roof, rooms, and damaged items. Record video if you can do so safely. Save every work order and receipt for your claim.
Do Not Get on the Roof Yourself
A chainsaw on a ladder is dangerous on a good day. It is far worse when a tree is pushing on the roof.
The roof deck may be cracked below the shingles. Wet pine needles make a steep roof slick. A limb may also be bent like a spring. One wrong cut can release that force and throw wood toward you. It may also shift the trunk deeper into the house.
Crews plan the load before making a cut. They may use ropes, rigging, or a crane-assisted lift. The goal is to take weight off the house in a set order. Large parts are held and lowered instead of dropped.
Once the tree is clear, the roof may need a tarp. That short-term cover can help keep more rain out until a roofer checks the damage. Do not climb up to place it yourself. Ask the tree crew or roofer what can be done safely.
You can see examples of careful removals in our recent work.
What to Know About Homeowners Insurance
Do not wait on an adjuster while rain comes through an open roof or the tree keeps shifting. Deal with the active danger first. Take safe photos before work begins, then keep proof of the work that was done.
Coverage depends on your policy and why the tree fell. Emergency removal from a covered building may be handled in one part of a claim. Roof repair may be handled in another. Your carrier must make that call. Our guide explains more about homeowners insurance and tree removal.
Ask for a clear work record. It should state what was removed and why the work could not wait. Tar Hill can give you job details for your claim, but your insurer decides what it will pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call if a tree is on my house?
Call 911 first if someone is hurt, trapped, or near a downed line. Once people are safe, call Tar Hill at (910) 725-5476 for help removing the tree.
Will insurance pay to remove a tree from my roof?
It often depends on the cause, the damaged property, and your policy. Document the scene, stop the active hazard, and contact your carrier. Read our insurance guide for the next steps.
Can Tar Hill come out today or tonight?
The emergency line serves Fayetteville and Cumberland County. Call (910) 725-5476 to explain what fell and what it is touching. See what Fayetteville neighbors say about our storm call-outs, then use the free-estimate form if the danger is no longer active.