What Do I Do If a Tree Falls on My Roof in a Storm?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Ensure Immediate Safety for All Occupants
Your priority is safety. Do not enter any part of the home where the ceiling is sagging or water is actively coming in. The structural integrity of the roof and ceilings may be compromised, posing a collapse risk. Move everyone, including pets, to a dry, unaffected area of the house or to a neighbor's home if necessary. Avoid rooms below the damaged roof section until a professional has assessed it.
Electricity and gas can pose serious secondary hazards. If you smell gas or hear hissing, leave the property immediately and call the utility company from a safe distance. Consider shutting off the main electrical breaker if it is safe to access your panel and if the area around it is completely dry. Water from the storm can conduct electricity through walls and floors.
Mitigate Further Water Damage Quickly
Water will enter through the opening in your roof. Act quickly to limit the spread and severity of interior damage. Move furniture, rugs, and valuables away from the affected area. If it is safe to do so, place buckets or containers under active drips and use towels to soak up standing water on floors. This can help preserve your belongings and reduce the moisture that leads to mold.
- Place plastic sheeting or tarps over furniture you cannot move.
- Remove delicate electronics and important documents from the area.
- Wring out soaked towels into a tub or sink to keep them effective.
- Avoid using standard household vacuums to suck up water.
- Keep the attic access closed if it is in a dry, safe location.
- Document all damaged items with photos or video for your records.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your homeowners insurance company as soon as possible after ensuring safety. They will guide you on starting a claim and explain your coverage details. Be prepared to provide your policy number and a general description of the damage. Ask about their specific requirements for documentation and if they have preferred vendors for emergency services or repairs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Documentation is critical for your claim. Take clear, wide-angle photos and videos of the exterior damage, the tree on the roof, and all interior water damage. Do not discard damaged personal property until an insurance adjuster has seen it. Keep a detailed list of damaged items, including descriptions, approximate age, and estimated value. Save all receipts for temporary repairs or supplies you purchase.
Secure Professional Roof Tarping
A critical next step is having the roof covered with a heavy-duty, waterproof tarp. This is a temporary seal to prevent more rain or snow from entering your home. This service, known as emergency roof tarping, should be performed by a qualified roofing professional. They have the training and equipment to secure the tarp safely and effectively, which is vital for protecting your home's interior.
The cost for emergency tarping often ranges from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars, depending on the roof's pitch, size of the hole, and accessibility. This expense is frequently part of the overall storm damage claim. Discuss this directly with your insurance adjuster. A proper tarp installation buys time for a thorough inspection and planning of the permanent roof repair.
Arrange for Water Damage Restoration
Even with a tarp, water has already entered your home, soaking insulation, drywall, and flooring. This moisture must be removed promptly to prevent structural rot and mold growth. This is where water damage restoration pros are needed. They use industrial air movers, dehumidifiers, and moisture meters to dry the structure completely, which is a specialized process beyond simple airing out a room.
The restoration pros will assess the extent of the water damage, often needing to remove wet drywall, insulation, and flooring. They check for hidden moisture in walls and subfloors. The goal is to return the affected areas to a dry, stable condition so permanent repairs can be made. If you live in Staten Island, its humid continental climate makes thorough drying especially important to avoid mold.
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Call Now (347) 983-9353Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for removing the fallen tree?
Typically, you are responsible for the tree and damage to your own property. If the tree was healthy and fell due to a storm, removal is usually your cost. If the tree was on a neighbor's property and was visibly dead or hazardous, liability questions may arise. Consult your insurance policy and adjuster for guidance specific to your situation.
What if water is coming through my ceiling?
If the ceiling is bulging, it is holding a large amount of water and could collapse. Do not stand underneath it. This relieves weight and may prevent a larger, more dangerous collapse. Then, call for professional help immediately.
How long do I have to prevent mold after a roof leak?
Mold can begin to grow within 24 to 48 hours in damp, warm conditions. This is why prompt water extraction and professional drying are so important. Simply letting the area air dry is often insufficient, as moisture remains inside walls and ceilings. Professional drying equipment is designed to remove this hidden moisture effectively.