After a Storm: Tree Damage Checklist
When the wind dies down, a quick, careful walk around the property tells you what needs attention first. Safety comes before clean-up.
Request a tree serviceLook for lines
Check for downed or sagging power lines before going near any fallen tree. Assume lines are live.
Check the house
Look for limbs on the roof, cracked siding, broken windows and damaged gutters.
Hanging limbs
Look up. Broken limbs caught in the canopy can fall later.
Splits and leans
Note any trees that are newly leaning, split or with soil lifted at the base.
Photos
Photograph everything before clean-up for your insurance claim.
Don't use a chainsaw
Leave large limbs and trees under tension to professionals.
Protect the roof
If a tree hit the roof, get it off and the roof tarped quickly.
Check later
Some damage shows up days later as leaves wilt on broken limbs.
Next
See storm and emergency tree work.
Neighbors' trees
If a neighbor's tree fell on your property, take photos and talk to your insurer; responsibility often depends on whether the tree was healthy before the storm.
Book early
After big storms, tree services fill up fast. Get on the list early, even if the work isn't urgent.
More tree service guides
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