<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/800px-Fallen_Tree_Next_to_House_7516110588.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p>Storms can bring branches and trees down on and near your home. Photo: CC0 Creative Commons ©2018</p> <p>Bay Area storm systems bring <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/rainy-day-checklist/" target="_self">heavy rains</a> that saturate the soil, creating more surface runoff and loosening plants’ root systems. Under these conditions, strong winds can topple trees, causing headaches for homeowners. If a tree has fallen on your property, follow these steps to remedy the situation:</p> <p><strong>Power lines</strong><br>If the tree interfered with power lines or fell in a way that put it perilously close to power lines, call 911 or PG&amp;E. Damaged power lines are a serious hazard that should be handled by those with the proper skills and equipment.</p> <p><strong>Gas lines</strong><br>Shut off your gas until a professional can confirm that gas lines didn’t sustain damage.</p> <p><strong>Document the damage</strong><br>Once it’s safe, take photos of the fallen tree and the damage it has caused from multiple angles. This will be essential for insurance claims in the future.</p> <p><strong>Contact your insurance company</strong><br>Call your insurance representative to begin the claims process. Read over your home insurance policy so you have a better idea of what will be covered.</p> <p><strong>Do simple patch-ups</strong><br>It may be a little while before a contractor can do proper repairs. To keep your home safe, board up any broken windows and clear away any debris. Have a roofer or handyman do a basic fix for any roof damage.</p> <p><strong>Call appropriate contractors for bids</strong><br>Depending on how the tree fell, you may need to contact a handyman, contractor, tree removal service, roofer, window company or another professional to repair your home. Even in urgent situations, it’s still important to get multiple bids and <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/how-to-avoid-bad-contractors-blog/" target="_self">choose a trustworthy contractor</a>.</p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-tree-service/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Tree Service Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-tree-service/" target="_self">Marin County Tree Service Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-tree-service/" target="_self">Alameda County Tree Service Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-tree-service/" target="_self">Sonoma County Tree Service Companies </a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/santa-clara-tree-service/" target="_self">Santa Clara County Tree Service Companies</a>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Tree-Services/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Tree Services</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;</p>