Tree Damage Tips: Protecting Your Property and Well-Being

PuroClean Emergency Recovery Services in New Jersey – (877) 750-7876

Tree damage can be an unexpected challenge when faced with the unpredictable forces of Mother Nature. If you’re among the unfortunate few with a fallen tree on your property, understanding how to respond effectively is crucial.

Here are some essential tips to consider when dealing with tree damage.

1. Secure the Area and Keep Everyone Away

Immediately after a tree falls on your property, the first step is to secure the area and ensure that everyone stays away from the affected zone. Large limbs that are broken and hanging can fall at any moment, posing a significant risk to anyone nearby.

• Uprooted or partially uprooted trees may shift or fall unpredictably. Do not allow access to these areas until a professional has assessed and resolved the situation.

• Avoid touching the fallen tree, as it may have taken down power lines during its descent. These power lines might not be visible but can still be energized. Additionally, the tree itself, as well as any nearby metal structures like chain link fences, could be energized.

2. Call the Professionals

In the event of tree damage, it’s imperative to enlist the services of a reputable and qualified tree care company. Do not attempt to cut up storm-damaged trees or limbs on your own. These trees may contain spring-loaded forces that can cause serious injury if not handled properly.

3. Secure Exposed Areas

After a tree falls on your property, it can create openings in your home or building. These exposed areas need to be secured promptly to prevent secondary or additional damage. Often, trees can poke holes in roofs, break windows, or cause other structural issues. If you don’t tarp and board up these openings, you risk further water damage from future storms until proper repairs can be made.

4. Contact Your Insurance Agent

In many cases, a homeowners insurance policy will cover the damage caused by a tree falling on your home. However, it’s essential to contact your insurance agent to understand the specific details of your coverage and the claims process.

6 Tips for Assessing Your Trees Before and After a Storm

It’s not only about dealing with the aftermath of a storm; proactive measures can help you reduce the risk of tree-related damage. Here are six tips for checking your trees:

1. Inspect the Root System: Examine the area around the tree’s trunk, approximately 10 feet in diameter. Signs of a lifted or damaged root system may indicate instability.

2. Check for Mushroom Growth or Cavities: Inspect the base of the tree for the presence of mushrooms or cavities in the trunk. These can be indicators of internal tree issues.

3. Look for Cracks and Splits: Long vertical cracks or a splitting trunk are red flags that should not be ignored. Address these issues promptly to prevent potential tree falls.

4. Remove Dead Branches: Dead branches should be pruned and removed to prevent them from falling during storms.

5. Thin Dense Canopies: Reducing the density of leaves in the tree’s canopy can help minimize wind resistance during storms.

6. Assess Branch Unions: Weak branch unions can lead to limb failure. Look for ‘U’-shaped unions, which are stronger, and avoid ‘V’-shaped unions with seams.

Storm Tree Damage: Taking Action

When a tree falls on your property, it can result in significant damage to your home or business. Here’s how to navigate the aftermath:

1. Evaluate the Damage: Assess the extent of the tree damage to your property.

2. Professional Tree Removal: If necessary, assist the homeowner in contacting a professional tree removal company to safely remove the fallen tree.

3. Board Up and Tarp: Secure all exposed areas of your property to prevent secondary damage, including water intrusion or vandalism.

4. Scope of Work and Repair Estimate: Provide a comprehensive scope of work and repair estimate to you and your insurance company, if needed. This step ensures that the damage restoration process is well-documented and proceeds smoothly.

When dealing with tree damage, safety should always be the top priority. By following these guidelines and seeking professional assistance, you can protect both your property and your well-being in the face of unexpected tree-related incidents.

For expert assistance with tree damage cleanup and restoration, contact PuroClean Emergency Recovery Services in New Jersey at (877) 750-7876. Our experienced professionals are ready to assist you in safeguarding your property and getting your life back on track after tree damage.