Tree on a House or Fence in Folsom

What's usually going on with a tree on a house in Folsom

On a lot of suburban lots, the back fence sits close to the house, and a big tree is right there next to both. When something lets go, it has nowhere to land except on a house or a fence line.

Here are the cases we hear about most.

• A limb across the back fence, panels bent or down.
• A trunk leaning on the eave, with shingles torn.
• A branch through a shed or pergola.
• A tree on a parked car in the driveway.
• A neighbor's tree that came over the line into your yard.

Each one needs a different fix. A fence limb is a simple lift. A trunk on a house needs a plan, because the wrong cut can send the whole thing crashing through.

Do these things first

Safety first, then paperwork.

Keep everyone out of the rooms under the tree. A house that's been hit may have hidden damage, and a sagging ceiling can drop.

Look for wires. If anything is touching the tree or tangled in it, stay back and dial 911. The weather service warns that a line on the grass or pavement can still carry current, so keep well away. Then call SMUD at 1-888-456-7683.

Don't climb up to look. Don't pull on the tree. Don't cut a limb that's holding other weight, because a cut can shift the load.

Now the photos. Shoot the tree, the damage, the street and any close-up of the damage. Do it before anything moves.

Last, call your insurance company. Then call us.

Who pays

This is the question everyone asks. Consumer Reports gives a plain answer. If a tree falls and hits your house, your homeowner's insurance generally handles it, no matter whose tree it was.

On the numbers, the hauling part usually stops at $500 or $1,000. Repairs to a house or detached garage may be paid separately, minus your deductible.

A neighbor's tree that comes down on your house still lands on your policy. That feels backwards, but the guide spells it out.

A tree that falls and hits nothing usually gives you no claim at all. You pay for the cleanup.

Check your own policy for the exact limits, because they differ. Your agent can tell you what yours says.

What tree removal in Folsom costs

The price depends on size, access and what the tree is leaning on. A fence limb is small money. A trunk on a house is real money. These are ranges from cost guides.

Price sources: Fixr's removal cost guide.

A tree on a house usually lands in the upper part of those ranges. The pro has to work from a ladder or lift, and has to protect what's left of the roof.

Roof repair, fence repair and tarping are separate. A roofer or a fence builder does those. Your pro cuts and hauls the tree. Ask what the price covers so you can add it all up.

Fixr adds that the tallest trees, 80+ feet, can call for a crane. Cranes are pricey, but they can be the safest way to lift a heavy trunk off a house.

How tree removal in Folsom usually goes

A good pro starts by looking at where the weight sits. They find what the tree is resting on and which cut will let it move.

Often they work from the top down. They cut small pieces and lower them with ropes, so nothing falls on the house. On a bigger tree, they may rig the pieces to a crane.

Once the weight is off, they clear the rest. On a fence, that means cutting the limb free and lifting it over. They may take down a panel or two to get at it.

Then the debris gets hauled, or you keep the rounds for firewood. Ask about stump grinding if the whole tree is coming out.

Expect some noise. And expect the pro to ask you to stay out of the area.

How we help with tree service in Folsom

We answer, find a pro in your part of Folsom, and set up the visit. If you can send photos, the pro will know what to bring.

While you're on the phone with your insurer, we're working on the pro. That saves a lot of time on a rough day.

Your pro gives you the price before work begins. Want a second price? Tell us.

A quick note on city rules. Folsom has its own tree rules, and some trees are protected. Whether yours is, we can't say. Ask the City of Folsom and pass it on to your pro.

House and fence questions

Can I cut the limb off my fence myself?

Small ones, maybe, if nothing is near a wire and nothing is under strain. If it's heavy or bent over, call a pro. A tensioned limb can snap back.

Will the pro fix my roof?

No. A tree pro handles the tree. A roofer handles the roof. Your insurer can point you to someone.

The tree came from next door. Who removes it?

Talk with your neighbor. For your house damage, you'd call your own insurer first. We can still set up a pro to clear it.

Should I tarp the roof?

If it's raining and the roof is open, yes, once it's safe. Ask your insurer about tarping first.