What to Do When a Tree Falls on Your Roof: A Simple Guide for Minneapolis Homeowners

Apr 14, 2025Blog, Minneapolis, Tree Falls on a Roof

Living in Minneapolis, MN, you know how fast storms can hit. One minute, it’s calm, and the next, high winds or heavy snow send trees crashing down. If a tree falls on your roof, it can be scary, messy, and expensive. But knowing what to do can help keep your family safe and your home protected.

This guide explains what to do when a tree falls on your roof, step by step, so you can act quickly and confidently. Whether you’re dealing with a few branches or a whole tree, these tips are perfect for homeowners in our area.

Step 1: Make Sure Everyone is Safe

If a tree or big branch hits your house, your first move should be to check on your family. Make sure everyone is okay. If the tree hit part of the home you can’t see or hear clearly—like an upstairs room—go check.

If the roof is badly damaged, or if you hear cracking or feel the house shift, leave the home right away. It might not be safe to stay inside. Get to a safe spot outside and wait for help.

Step 2: Call 911 if Needed

If power lines came down or there’s a chance of fire or structural danger, call 911. Emergency teams can check your home and make sure it’s safe. In Minneapolis, storms can knock out power or bring down wires. Don’t try to move anything yourself. Trained professionals will handle it.

expert roofing company in Minneapolis MN

Step 3: Take Photos of the Damage

Once you know everyone is safe, and it’s safe to be near the house, take photos of the damage. Try to capture where the tree hit, any roof holes, broken shingles, or cracks. Take pictures from different angles if possible.

This will help with your insurance claim later. If it’s too dangerous to get close, wait for a roofer or insurance adjuster to do it.

Step 4: Call Your Insurance Company

Next, call your home insurance provider. Let them know a tree fell on your roof during the recent storm. Describe the damage and send them the photos you took.

Insurance companies deal with storm damage from trees all the time in Minnesota. If the tree was healthy and the storm caused it to fall, there’s a good chance your policy will cover the damage.

Your insurance company may:

  • Send an adjuster to look at the roof
  • Recommend a local roofing contractor
  • Pay for emergency tarping or temporary repairs

Step 5: Get the Tree or Branch Removed

Once the insurance process is started, it’s time to have the tree removed. Call a tree removal service in the Minneapolis area. These crews have the right tools to safely cut and lift the tree off your roof without causing more damage.

Do not try to remove heavy branches on your own. The tree could shift, or pieces of your roof could collapse.

Step 6: Call a Local Roofing Contractor

After the tree is gone, it’s time to fix the roof. Reach out to a trusted roofing company that offers storm damage repair in Minneapolis, MN, like Rock Hard Roofing. They’ll check your roof and make a full list of what needs to be repaired or replaced.

Here’s what a local roofer can help with:

  • Full roof inspection
  • Emergency tarping if rain is coming
  • A written estimate for repairs or replacement
  • Help with insurance paperwork

Make sure to pick a Minneapolis roofing company that knows how to handle storm claims and repair damage the right way. Don’t just go with someone who knocks on your door after a storm—they might not be licensed or even local.

Signs of Storm Damage from Trees

When a tree falls on your roof, there are many types of damage to watch for. A good roofer will check for all of the following:

  • Holes or cracks in the roof
  • Broken or missing shingles
  • Leaks inside the attic or ceilings
  • Damaged gutters or flashing
  • Crushed roof framing from the tree’s weight

If these problems aren’t fixed right away, they can lead to more trouble—like mold, water damage, or bigger roof repairs later.

Why Fast Action Matters

Even if the roof looks okay from the outside, there could be damage under the surface. Rainwater can sneak in through cracks, and hidden roof damage can lead to serious problems.

Here’s why you should act quickly:

  • Prevent more water damage
  • Avoid mold and rot inside your attic
  • Speed up the insurance process
  • Get repairs done before the next storm

Living in Minneapolis Means Being Prepared

Storms are part of life in Minneapolis, MN. Whether it’s spring wind, summer storms, or winter snow and ice, local homeowners know that trees near homes can be risky. That’s why it’s smart to keep your roof in good shape and know what to do when a tree falls on your roof.

Make sure your family knows the emergency steps, keep your insurance info handy, and have the number of a trusted roofer saved in your phone.

Final Tips for Minneapolis Homeowners

Here are a few extra tips just for local homeowners dealing with storm damage from trees:

  • If your neighbors had roof damage too, your home may also be affected—even if it looks fine at first glance.
  • Keep your trees trimmed and healthy to reduce risk in future storms.
  • Schedule a roof inspection after strong storms, even if no tree fell.

Need Help? Schedule a Free Estimate Today

If a tree has fallen on your roof, don’t wait. Our team specializes in helping Minneapolis, MN homeowners deal with storm damage fast. We’ll inspect your roof, help with insurance claims, and get your home safe again.

Call us now or schedule your free estimate online today—we’re here to help you through it every step of the way.

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