A Tree Fell on Your House: What to Do First

A tree on the roof is frightening, and it can be dangerous. Here is what to do and what to leave alone.

Check for Danger

Get everyone out of the affected rooms. Listen for cracking and look for sagging ceilings, broken windows or bowed walls. If the house feels unsafe, leave and call emergency services.

Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them.

Do Not Move the Tree Yourself

The weight may be resting on damaged framing. Cutting the wrong limb can shift the load and cause a collapse or an injury.

Wait for people with the right equipment and a plan for removing the weight.

Cover, Clear and Rebuild

A roofer ties a tarp over the opening to keep out rain, then works with a tree crew to remove the debris safely. After that, the framing, decking and roofing are rebuilt.

Photos taken before and during the work give you a clear record of what happened.