For homeowners
What should I do during a storm if a tree falls on my house?
Short answer
Stay inside, move to a part of the house away from the tree, and call 911 if anyone is hurt or you smell gas or see sparks. Do not go outside until the storm passes and you are sure no power lines are down.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
Your safety comes first. If a tree hits your home, check that everyone is accounted for and move away from the damaged area. If the roof or walls look unstable, or you smell gas, get everyone out only when it is safe to do so and call 911 from outside.
If a tree has fallen on a power line, assume the line is live. Stay far back, keep others away, and call 911 and your utility company. Never touch the tree, a car or a fence that may be touching the line.
Do not use a chainsaw in storm conditions, and do not try to clear the tree yourself. Once the storm is over, take photos of the damage for your insurer and then call an insured tree service.
This is general information, not legal advice.
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Hiring a tree service?
Plain guides for homeowners
Safety first: stay away from downed power lines and call the utility; call 911 if anyone is in danger. Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
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