TL;DR
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Safety First: Assess the situation from a safe distance, especially if power lines are involved. Contact your local hydro company if necessary.
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Assess Property Damage: Take photos of any damage for insurance claims and contact your insurer if needed.
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Responsibility: In Ontario, the property owner where the tree lands is typically responsible for removal, but insurance may handle cases differently.
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Contact an Arborist: Tree removal is a professional job. Certified arborists safely remove trees and assess any additional risks.
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Tree Replacement: Consider planting a new tree in place of the fallen one with advice from an arborist.
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Prevent Future Falls: Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent future tree accidents.
What Happens if a Tree Falls on Your House or Property?
We have many storms here in Ontario, and they can cause serious damage to trees. A fallen tree on your property can be a stressful and hazardous situation, especially if it causes damage or obstructs access to your home, a shed, or even your backyard. Whether the tree fell due to a storm, disease, or decay, knowing how to handle the situation safely and legally is very important. When trees have fallen or large limbs have come down on your property, it’s typically not a DIY job to take them down. Trees can twist and bend and exert forces that can cause snap back or cracking, which homeowners might not be prepared for. If handled improperly, they can also cause more damage to your home.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you should do if a tree falls on your property in Ontario.
1. Ensure Safety From The Fallen Tree
Before anything else, you need to assess the situation from a safe distance. It is wise to contact an experienced arborist near you to check out the tree, especially if it is leaning on a house or other structure. If the fallen tree has brought down power lines, stay far away and immediately contact your local hydro company. Avoid touching any branches or debris entangled with electrical wires, as they can still be live and pose a significant risk of electrocution.
2. Assess Damage to Your Property
Once it is safe to do so, check for damage to your home, vehicles, or other structures. If the tree has caused property damage, you should take photos so that if you need to submit an insurance claim, you will have proper documentation. You should also contact your insurance provider as soon as possible if significant damage has occurred.
3. Determine if There is a Responsibility Issue
In Ontario, responsibility for tree removal typically falls on the property owner where the tree landed, regardless of where the tree originally stood. However, if a healthy tree from a neighboring property falls due to an extreme storm, there is a chance that your insurance company may handle it differently. It’s always best to check with your insurer to confirm coverage and responsibilities.
4. Contact a Certified Arborist Near You
Removing a fallen tree is not a DIY job. Professional arborists have the expertise and equipment to handle tree removal safely and efficiently. Certified arborists in Ontario follow provincial safety regulations and can assess whether the remaining portion of the tree poses further risks. They have the equipment to remove a tree off of structures it may have landed on without causing further damage, and they will take big limbs away so that your property is cleaned up. Certified arborists will also know if there are any by-laws regarding tree removal, especially for large or heritage trees.
7. Consider Tree Replacement
If the fallen tree was an integral part of your landscape, you might want to plant a new tree in its place. There are many fast-growing trees that are great options for quickly replacing the shade beauty of the fallen tree. Consult an arborist for recommendations on suitable tree species that can withstand Ontario’s climate and soil conditions.
8. Prevent Future Incidents
Regular tree inspections and maintenance can help prevent future tree falls. A certified arborist can assess the health of trees on your property and provide pruning, bracing, or removal if necessary. Addressing potential hazards before they become problems can save you time, money, and stress.
Deal With Fallen Trees Promptly
A fallen tree on your property can be a significant inconvenience, but knowing how to handle it properly can make the process smoother. Prioritize safety, contact professionals, and follow local regulations to ensure a hassle-free resolution. If you need expert assistance, reach out to a certified Ontario arborist to assess and manage your trees effectively.