Quick Answer
Okay, so here's the quick version. After a storm, the first thing you do is STOP. Look for downed power lines from a safe distance. If you see 'em, call the utility company, not me, not anyone else. For the tree, snap photos for your insurance. You can handle picking up small branches, anything you can drag without a struggle. Anything bigger than your arm, hanging up in the canopy, or leaning towards your house? That's a job for a pro. Don't be a hero. A simple cleanup might be a few hundred bucks, but a big dangerous removal can run into the thousands.
Common Symptoms
Possible Causes
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
Step 1
Immediately check for downed power lines from a safe distance. If you see any, call the utility company.
Step 2
Photograph all damage extensively from multiple angles for insurance claims.
Step 3
Assess for hidden dangers like hanging branches (widowmakers) or tension in bent logs (spring poles).
Step 4
Identify the specific type of damage: broken limbs, split trunk, leaning, or completely uprooted.
Step 5
Determine the immediate threat by noting the proximity of damaged trees to homes, vehicles, and high-traffic areas.
DIY vs Professional Costs
| Repair Type | DIY Cost | Professional Cost | Time Required |
|---|---|---|---|
Clearing small debris (<4" diameter) | $0-$50 | $250-$700 | 1-4 hours |
Large Limb or Leaning Tree Removal | Not Recommended | $1,500-$5,000+ | 4-16 hours |
Emergency Removal (Tree on House) | Not Recommended | $3,000-$10,000+ | 1-3 days |
When to Call a Professional Tree Service
- Anytime a tree or branch is on or near a power line (call utility company first).
- When a tree or large branch has fallen on your home, garage, or vehicle.
- If the main trunk of the tree is split or has a major crack.
- If the tree is suddenly leaning or the ground around the base is lifted.
- You see 'widowmakers'—large broken branches—hanging in the upper canopy.
- The work requires a chainsaw or working off the ground on a ladder.
- You feel uncertain or unsafe about the situation in any way.
Prevention Tips
- Proactively prune trees every few years with a certified arborist to remove weak points and thin the canopy.
- Plant the right tree species for your location, considering soil, climate, and mature size relative to structures.
- Annually inspect your trees for signs of disease, pests, rot, or structural cracks.
- Consider cabling or bracing for large, valuable trees with known structural weaknesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
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