Resident 'terrified' as tree crashes through roof of Balgownie home

Fire and Rescue NSW and the SES crews were called to the Para Street townhouse block shortly before 12pm after a tree branch broke through the roof and destroyed two bedrooms.

Resident Ro Ri was in the bedroom next door when the branch came crashing down.

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"I thought it was a tree and I looked outside when I heard it and I saw parts of the tree still falling," he said.

"Everybody got out ok.

"We will get our stuff out later. Then we will have to live somewhere else."

Mr Ri said it was a lucky escape for his family as his father would usually be in the bedroom.

Fire and Rescue Warrawong station commander Michael Adams said crews initially secured the house and evacuated the neighbours.

The residents were already outside when firefighters arrived.

"The house has asbestos," Mr Adams said. "The specialist HAZMAT crew from Shellharbour has laid down an asbestos suppressant glue which has secured that problem.

"Firefighters are removing the broken tiles and guttering to make it safe for builders to come in and work on.

"The house will be condemned and residents will be given emergency housing.

"The branch has caused structural damage and because of the asbestos, the house is unlivable.

"The house will be handed over to the Department of Housing."

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