You’ve discovered that a tree has fallen directly into your yard or, even worse, on your house! Do you know what to do when a tree falls on your property?
Never fear when Gutierrez & Sons Tree Services and Landscaping is here! We’ll guide you through what to do before you request emergency tree services in San Pedro, CA.
Where Did the Tree Fall?
Before you act, protect your safety and survey the damage from a distance.
The dangers of a fallen tree sometimes extend beyond your property. For instance, large branches might touch power lines. The uprooted tree could also disturb underground gas lines.
You also want to ensure that the damage falls within your property boundary. You’ll want to avoid a future neighbor dispute on top of stressful repairs and debris removal.
Here’s What To Do When a Tree Falls on Your Property
Now, let’s review what to do when a tree falls on your property. You’ve already made sure that no potentially dangerous above or below-ground infrastructure threatens your safety.
If you’re local, work through the following steps before looking for a tree removal service in San Pedro, California.
Examine the Damage
If you can get close enough, do a brief tree damage assessment.
- Where did the biggest, most damaging limbs land?
- Where is the bulk of the tree trunk leaning?
- How did the fall affect your building, cars, and driveway?
- Did the tree block access points?
Emergency services need details.
Contact Additional Emergency Providers and Your Insurance Company
If you suspect the roots opened a gas line, or the branches broke powerlines, contact your gas and electric companies before you do anything else.
Then, alert your liability insurance provider to the damage – though first it helps to understand neighbor liability and tree ownership rules in California, which can affect how your claim is handled. Their agent can quickly dispatch an inspector to inventory the damage and help with claims.
Take Photos and Videos
Remember to take your own pictures and footage, too. While your insurance inspector will likely document the damage, you can use your evidence in case of a claim denial.
Pictures also help your preferred repair service better understand their project scope.
Patch Things Up If Possible
You can’t leave some damage unattended. For instance, an open roof exposes your building interior to precipitation and debris.
Can you access the damage safely? Patch it up by laying tarps, moving belongings out of the way, and boarding broken windows or doors.
Consider Your Repair Options
With the basics underway, it’s time to take contract bids on the impending repair work.
Remember to request estimates from three or more contractors in your area. Each representative will likely visit your property to inspect the damage before giving you an estimate.
Finally, Contact Gutierrez & Sons Tree Services and Landscaping for Emergency Tree Services!
Of course, you don’t want to forget to remove the tree that caused all this calamity!
Gutierrez & Sons Tree Services and Landscaping knows what to do when a tree falls on your property. Trust us for emergency tree removal and cleanup in San Pedro, California, help with choosing trees for small backyards, and more! Call 310-324-6593.