It only takes one loud crack in the middle of a Kansas thunderstorm to change everything. One minute you’re watching the weather roll in, next, you’re standing in your living room staring at a tree limb punching through your ceiling. If a tree falls on your roof, the last thing you want is confusion.
Whether it’s the full trunk or just a heavy limb, storm damage from trees can quickly cause serious structural risks, electrical hazards, and water infiltration.
Here’s what you need to do next:
- Make sure everyone is safe and evacuate the home
- Call 911 and your utilities provider if needed
- Document all visible damage for insurance
- Avoid DIY removal, contact pros for tree and roof repair
- Schedule a professional inspection to assess long-term risk
Need help right away? Schedule your free inspection with VersaCon and get expert help from Wichita’s storm damage pros.
Why Tree Damage to Roofs Is a Big Deal
When a tree falls on your roof, the consequences aren’t always visible at first. A branch may look like a surface-level issue, but even a glancing impact can damage decking, crack rafters, tear off shingles, or weaken the entire structure. Worse, water intrusion can begin immediately, leading to mold, warped drywall, and long-term structural issues.
Storm damage from trees is especially common in Kansas, where straight-line winds and saturated ground often topple even healthy trees. In fact, July and August bring peak risk as storms collide with full canopies and soaked soil.
Whether it’s a giant oak or a mid-size maple, fallen trees are no small matter. The sooner you act, the better your chances of keeping your home safe and your insurance claim on track.
Be Prepared: What You’ll Need Before You Act
Once you’ve confirmed everyone’s safety, take these steps before repairs begin:
- Documentation tools: A smartphone or camera to capture roof and interior damage
- Emergency contacts: Your insurer’s claims line, a licensed roofer, and a certified arborist
- Temporary protection: Tarps or plastic sheeting (if safe to install)
- Insurance info: Your policy number and coverage details
Avoid trying to remove the tree yourself; professional equipment is essential for safe extraction. Roofing contractors like VersaCon can also provide emergency tarping to reduce further interior damage before a full inspection.
What To Do When a Tree Falls on Your Roof: Step-By-Step
If a massive tree falls on your property, causing a lot of damage, here’s what you need to do.
1. Evacuate and Check for Injuries
Your first concern is safety. Get everyone, pets included, out of the house and away from the damaged area.
2. Call 911
Emergency services can check for structural hazards, power line damage, or gas leaks and help determine if it’s safe to re-enter.
3. Notify Your Utility Provider
If the tree damaged electrical, gas, or water systems, notify your utility company. They may shut off services to prevent hazards.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
Start your claim as soon as possible. Provide photos and details, but don’t remove the tree until your adjuster has visited.
5. Call a Licensed Tree Removal Service
Avoid DIY removal; professionals are equipped to remove the tree safely and without causing further roof damage.
6. Schedule a Roof Inspection
A local roofing contractor like VersaCon can tarp your roof immediately, then perform a thorough inspection to determine repair or replacement needs.
7. Begin Repairs and Restoration
Once your claim is approved and the area is safe, work with your roofer to restore the structure. This may include framing, decking, shingle replacement, and water mitigation.
The Real Cost of Tree Damage, and Why Fast Action Matters
Tree-related storm damage in Kansas can result in $3,000–$15,000+ in repairs, depending on the size of the tree and the severity of the impact.
If water enters through an open roof, repair costs climb fast, especially if mold remediation or insulation replacement is required. Insurance generally covers storm damage from trees, but only if you take immediate action to prevent further loss.
VersaCon’s emergency team provides 24/7 roof tarping, siding, and gutter evaluations, as well as full roof repair after tree impacts. We understand local codes, insurance timelines, and the urgency of the situation.
Pros of Pro Response:
- Rapid stabilization with tarp-over or board-up
- Insurance support and claim documentation
- Full-service structural repair, not just patchwork
Cons of Waiting:
- Mold and moisture intrusion
- Delayed or denied insurance coverage
- Increased repair costs from secondary damage
Tree-Impact Emergency Checklist
- Evacuate home and check for injuries
- Call 911 and report the incident
- Contact your insurance company
- Take clear photos and videos of the damage
- Call a certified tree removal service
- Schedule roof tarping and inspection
- Begin roof and structural repair planning
Wichita Roof Damage FAQs
What Should I Do If a Tree Falls on My Roof?
If a tree falls on your roof, evacuate the home, call 911, and then contact your insurance and a professional roofer. Safety comes first, and early documentation helps your claim.
Will Insurance Cover Storm Damage From Trees?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies cover storm damage from trees if the tree was healthy and fell due to a storm or high wind. Coverage may vary if neglect was involved.
Can I Remove the Tree Myself?
No, it’s not recommended. A fallen tree can be under extreme tension. Professional removal services prevent injury and further roof damage.
Is Emergency Roof Tarping Covered by Insurance?
Typically, yes. Most insurers reimburse temporary protection like tarp-over services as part of the covered claim, but only if done promptly.
How Long Do I Have to File an Insurance Claim?
It depends, but many insurers require claims within 30–60 days of the incident. Contact your provider immediately after a tree falls on your roof.
How Can I Prevent Tree Damage in the Future?
Regular tree trimming, inspections by arborists, and identifying root issues can reduce the risk of future falls.
Trust the Pros When Disaster Strikes
If a tree falls on your roof, fast action is critical, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Between the shock, the mess, and the paperwork, knowing who to call can take the weight off your shoulders.
VersaCon offers licensed, insured, and fast-response emergency roofing services throughout Wichita. From tarping and tree coordination to insurance support and roof restoration, we help protect your home and your peace of mind.
Schedule your free inspection today and let us help you recover from storm damage with confidence.
