Emergency Storm Damage: Steps to Take When a Tree Falls

Severe storms can bring heavy winds, rain, and even lightning, creating hazardous conditions for trees on your property. When a tree falls, whether on your home, driveway, or power lines, it can be a stressful and dangerous situation. 

Knowing the right steps to take can help minimize damage, ensure safety, and get your property back to normal as quickly as possible. At Artistic Tree and Landscape in Bunker Hill WV, we specialize in storm damage tree removal and property restoration. Here’s what to do when a tree falls during a storm.

Storm Damage: Ensure Everyone’s Safety

Your first priority after a storm is safety. If a tree has fallen, check to make sure that no one is injured. Keep children and pets away from the area to prevent accidents. If the tree has brought down power lines, assume they are live and dangerous. Avoid approaching the area and call your local utility company immediately.

Assess the Damage

Once it’s safe, take a closer look at the damage. Trees may fall on houses, vehicles, driveways, or fences, causing different levels of destruction. If the damage is severe or structural (such as a tree crashing through the roof), you may need to evacuate and contact emergency services. Take pictures of the damage for insurance purposes before making any attempts to remove debris.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

If the fallen tree has damaged your home, vehicle, or other structures, notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with photos and details of the incident to start the claims process. Many homeowners' insurance policies cover storm-related tree damage, but coverage may vary depending on the circumstances.

Avoid DIY Removal

While it may be tempting to clear the debris yourself, fallen trees can be unpredictable and dangerous. They may be entangled with power lines, have broken limbs under tension, or require specialized equipment for safe removal. Attempting to cut or move large branches without proper training and tools can result in injury or further property damage.

Call a Professional Tree Service

For safe and efficient tree removal, it’s best to hire a professional tree service like Artistic Tree and Landscape. In Bunker Hill, WV our experienced team has the right equipment and expertise to assess the situation, remove fallen trees safely, and prevent further property damage. We also offer emergency services to help homeowners deal with storm-related tree hazards promptly.

Prevent Further Damage

If the fallen tree has left a hole in your roof, broken windows, or damaged structures, take temporary measures to prevent further weather exposure. Cover openings with tarps, boards, or plastic sheeting until permanent repairs can be made. If the damage is significant, consult a contractor for structural repairs.

Check for Other Risks

After a major storm, it’s important to inspect other trees on your property for signs of damage. Cracked limbs, leaning trees, or exposed roots could indicate potential hazards that might cause future problems. A professional tree assessment can help identify at-risk trees and recommend necessary pruning or removal to improve safety.

Invest in Preventative Tree Care

To reduce the risk of tree damage in future storms, consider investing in regular tree maintenance. Trimming weak or overgrown branches, removing dead or diseased trees, and ensuring proper tree health can help prevent potential storm hazards. Artistic Tree and Landscape offers comprehensive tree care services to keep your landscape safe and resilient.

Dealing with a fallen tree after a storm can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can ensure safety and a smooth recovery. Always prioritize safety, document the damage for insurance claims, and call a professional tree service for safe removal. If you need emergency tree removal or storm damage assistance, Artistic Tree and Landscape is here to help. Contact us today for expert storm cleanup and tree care solutions!