A tree on your roof is one of the most stressful home emergencies there is. Here’s how to handle it step by step.
Step 1: Get Everyone Out Safely
Your first priority is people, not property. If a tree has come through the roof, evacuate the affected area immediately. Even if damage appears limited, a tree on a roof creates structural stress that can cause progressive failure — especially in wet conditions.
Step 2: Do Not Remove the Tree Yourself
A tree embedded in your roof is actually helping seal the opening it created. Remove it without proper support and you can significantly expand the breach and cause additional structural damage.
Tree removal from a roof requires a certified arborist working in coordination with a roofing contractor. They assess the structural situation, support the roof if needed, remove the tree in sections, and install temporary protection simultaneously.
Step 3: Call Your Insurance Company (This Time First)
For tree-on-roof situations, call insurance before the roofer — the tree needs to be documented in place. Take extensive photos from every safe angle before anything is touched.
Whose tree pays for what:
- Damage to your house: your homeowners insurance
- Removal of the tree from your roof: your homeowners insurance
- Removal from your yard only (not touching structure): typically not covered
- Neighbor’s tree: covered by your policy; pursue neighbor’s liability if negligence is proven
Step 4: Emergency Tarping After Tree Removal
Once the tree is professionally removed, tarping goes on immediately. At that point, document the underlying damage — damaged decking, broken rafters, missing shingles, and flashing.
Step 5: Structural Assessment
Before permanent repairs begin, have the structural system assessed. A roof framing member that looks intact may have micro-fractures. A general contractor or structural engineer should sign off before roofing work begins.
What Does Tree Damage Cost?
- Minor damage (tree grazed the roof): $1,500–$5,000
- Moderate damage (punctured roof, limited framing): $5,000–$15,000
- Severe damage (significant structural involvement): $15,000–$50,000+
Your insurance claim should cover the full scope minus your deductible.
Atlanta Roofing Experts handles tree damage from emergency tarping through full repair coordination across metro Atlanta and outlying areas. (404) 500-6638“>Call (404) 500-6638 →