Here’s what to do (and not do) if a tree hits your home

• School closures due to impacts from Hurricane Helene
• What Ga., S.C. agencies want you to know
• Local Red Cross is ready to offer assistance
• What you should know about power outages ahead of Helene
• Things you should know about hurricanes and tropical storms

AUGUSTA, Ga. - Water damage and uninsured tree cutters are a homeowner’s worst two enemies if a tree or branch damages a home during a storm.

With Hurricane Helene approaching, that’s something to think about.

Most insurance companies require storm-damaged roofs to be tarped, because once water gets in, mold starts growing in about 24 hours. Remediations cost thousands of dollars, and the claim could be denied if the insurer determines the homeowner didn’t take steps to prevent it.

Doni Jones owns Don’s Tree Service and specializes in checking for dead, dying or hazardous trees.

Jones said whenever there are major storms, her business is very busy afterward.

“A lot of trees that fall on people’s houses or people’s cars, sometimes they’re waiting days for the insurance companies to get back to them so they can get the trees off their house,” Jones said. “Which is why I say it’s important to be proactive, not reactive.”

According to Jones, homeowners can have someone come and check several things on the trees in their yard.

“For people with trees in their yard, they really need to look out for things like cracks in the base, mushrooms at the base, canopies that are thinning,” she said. “These are signs your trees are having issues.”

Other things to know:

• Tree removal companies are responsible for tarping the roof.
• If a tree service knocks on your door and offers to begin work immediately, take their card and get a quote.
• In fact, get several quotes, and research the company. Don’t just sign on the dotted line with someone who comes to your door.
• Mold starts growing in about 24 hours, and most insurance companies require storm-damaged roofs to be tarped.

“If you’re looking to hire a tree service or catastrophic claim handler, make sure he doesn’t hurry you up or rush you to sign documentation or pay up front,” said J.D. Shamoun of 72 Tree, who’s been specializing in catastrophic tree removal since 1969. “A real professional doesn’t need any money up front.”

Key takeaways:

• Do not pay up front.
• Require proof of insurance.
• Do not pay the bill until the cut-up tree is off your property.
• Take pictures and videos of the damage.
• Call your insurer and ask about coverage. If you have to move to a hotel, ask your insurer how much it will pay and for how long.

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