Overview
Storms can break limbs or topple trees onto homes, cars and power lines. Safety comes first.
Stay away from downed lines and contact the utility.
How it typically works
- Ensure safety. Keep clear of hazards.
- Document damage. Photos help claims.
- Remove hazards. Crews clear dangerous limbs.
- Note the tree and the concern. Species if known, height and what it's near help providers plan the work.
- Expect an assessment. Arborists look at structure, health and hazards like power lines before quoting.
- Ask about cleanup. Chipping, hauling and stump work are often priced separately.
What affects the outcome
- Power lines need utility crews. Don't approach.
- Insurance may cover removal. Check policies.
- Beware storm chasers. Verify insurance and references.
- Power lines need specialists. Trees near utility lines may require utility coordination.
- Timing matters. Some species are best pruned in certain seasons to reduce disease and stress.
- Insurance is essential. Tree work is risky, so confirm liability and workers' comp coverage.
What to have ready
- Your timeline, and whether anything is urgent.
- Your address or nearest cross streets so the request reaches someone local.
- A short description of the job and where it is on the property.
- Photos, if you have them; they help a provider understand the job faster.
- Any HOA, landlord or property manager rules that apply.
Red flags to watch for
- Door-to-door offers right after a storm with no local track record.
- Pressure to sign or pay the same day.
- Requests for large cash deposits before any work is scheduled.
- Unwilling to share proof of insurance or a license where one is required.
- No local address or references you can check.
Questions to ask a provider
- Do you carry liability and workers' compensation insurance?
- Is an ISA-certified arborist involved in the assessment?
- Is cleanup, chipping and haul-away included?
- How will you protect the lawn, driveway and structures?
- Do any city permits apply to this tree?
- Is stump grinding included or separate?
Frequently asked
- Can a sick tree be saved?
- Sometimes. An arborist can assess whether treatment, pruning or removal makes the most sense.
- Is topping a tree a good idea?
- Most arborists advise against topping because it can weaken a tree and lead to decay. Ask about proper crown reduction instead.
- Will insurance pay to remove a fallen tree?
- Often when it hits a covered structure, but policies vary.
Related topics
- Tree Removal: When and how trees are removed safely.
- Stump Grinding: Removing stumps after tree removal.
- Tree Health Care: Disease, pests and plant health care.