INSURANCE CLAIM PACKAGE
Whitfield Residence — Storm Damage
Claim
WF-2026-0418
Insured
J. Whitfield
Carrier
State Farm
Adjuster
R. Pendleton
DAMAGE NARRATIVE
On or about June 24, 2026, high winds associated with a severe convective storm event caused catastrophic structural failure of a 32-inch DBH Quercus falcata (Southern Red Oak) located approximately 12 feet northeast of the insured structure. Primary failure occurred at a co-dominant stem union exhibiting included bark, consistent with pre-existing structural compromise. The subordinate stem, estimated at 18 inches DBH, separated at the union under wind loading and impacted the southwest corner of the attached garage, causing penetration of the roof decking and partial collapse of the fascia system.
An 18-inch DBH Pinus taeda (Loblolly Pine) located on the southern property boundary sustained significant crown damage, including failure of two primary scaffold branches. The remaining crown structure exhibits asymmetric loading that presents an ongoing hazard to the adjacent fence line and utility corridor.
Immediate intervention is required to mitigate further structural risk to the insured property. Recommended scope of work is detailed below.
TREES ASSESSED
| Species | DBH | Est. Weight | Action |
|---|
Southern Red Oak (Quercus falcata) | 32" | 10,900 lbs | Remove · Haul |
Loblolly Pine (Pinus taeda) | 18" | 3,300 lbs | Prune · Cable |
2 trees · Removal · Pruning · Cabling · Debris hauling · Estimated 2-day scope
RECOMMENDED ACTIONS
The following scope of work is recommended in accordance with ANSI A300 (Part 1) — American National Standard for Tree Care Operations:
·
Southern Red Oak: Complete removal of the failed co-dominant stem and remaining trunk to grade. Stump grinding to 6 inches below grade. Full debris removal and site cleanup. Structural assessment of garage roof decking prior to final site clearance.
·
Loblolly Pine: Crown cleaning per ANSI A300 Part 1 to remove all failed and compromised primary scaffold branches. Installation of a high-strength supplemental support cable between primary scaffold stems per ANSI A300 Part 3. Crown asymmetry to be addressed through selective reduction to restore structural balance.
Failure to address the Loblolly Pine's compromised crown structure presents an ongoing risk of secondary branch failure to the adjacent fence line and utility corridor under normal wind loading conditions.
ASSESSING ARBORIST
Assessed by: Robert Calloway
ISA Certified Arborist #SO-7741A
Alabama Certified Urban Forester #AL-3192
Calloway Tree Care — Decatur, Alabama
Assessment date: June 24, 2026
This assessment has been prepared in accordance with ISA Best Management Practices and ANSI A300 standards. Documentation is provided for insurance claim purposes.