Trees add beauty, shade, and character to a property.
But trees change.
Branches grow. Storms weaken limbs. Wind moves them. What was safely several feet from the house a few years ago may eventually touch—or hang directly over—the roof.
That’s why exterior observations are an important part of Home Watch.
A branch contacting roofing materials can move repeatedly in the wind. Leaves and organic debris may accumulate in roof valleys or gutters. Overhanging limbs can also become a greater concern during thunderstorms, high winds, ice, and snow that Northwest Indiana homes experience.
A professional Home Watch visit doesn’t substitute for an arborist or roofing evaluation. We don’t climb onto roofs during routine observations or determine whether a tree is structurally sound.
We can observe accessible exterior conditions from the ground and look for changes:
· Is a branch now contacting the roof?
· Has storm debris appeared?
· Is a limb down?
· Does something look different from the previous visit?
If so, we document what we observe and report it to the homeowner.
Exterior photographs can be particularly useful because they create a record over time. Conditions that develop gradually may be easier to recognize when you can compare current observations with previous ones.
The homeowner can then decide whether a qualified tree-care or roofing professional should evaluate the property.
The objective isn’t to predict when something will fail. It’s to recognize when something has changed.
Homeowner Tip
Periodically walk around your property and look up, not just at the landscaping.
Observe tree limbs near the roof, chimney, siding, and utility areas. After significant storms, look again.
If a tree or limb appears questionable, consult a qualified tree-care professional.
Home Watch Connection
Exterior observations are an important part of scheduled Home Watch visits. When we observe storm debris, obvious damage, or other irregular conditions visible from the ground, we photograph and report them.
Regular Observation Matters.
When your home is unoccupied, small changes can go unnoticed. Hoosier Home Watch Service provides scheduled observations of your home, documents what we observe, and promptly reports irregular conditions so you can make informed decisions about the appropriate response.
Peace of Mind while you’re away.
Hoosier Home Watch Service
Serving St. John • Crown Point • Valparaiso
Certified • Insured • Trusted
239-910-0767