What To Do If A Storm Damaged My Tree?
If a storm has damaged your tree, it's important to take immediate and careful steps to assess the situation and protect both your property and the tree. Here’s what to do:
1. Ensure Safety First
Stay Away from Hazardous Areas: If branches or limbs have fallen on power lines, structures, or cars, avoid these areas. Fallen branches can be dangerous, and power lines may still be live.
Assess the Risk: If the tree is leaning dangerously or has large broken limbs, avoid approaching it until a professional can assess the damage. A compromised tree can fall or break further.
2. Inspect the Damage
Look for Broken or Fallen Limbs: Examine the tree to determine whether large branches or limbs have broken or fallen. These should be removed as soon as possible to prevent further damage or injury.
Check for Trunk Damage: If the trunk is split or cracked, it may need to be professionally assessed to determine whether it can be saved or if it poses a risk of falling.
Examine the Roots: If the storm caused the tree to lean significantly or if the soil is displaced around the tree's base, the roots may be damaged. This could cause the tree to be unstable.
3. Avoid Pruning or Cutting Yourself
Don't Do It Yourself: While minor clean-up of small, fallen branches can be done safely by homeowners, avoid attempting to cut down large limbs or handle hazardous situations like broken limbs near power lines. Professional tree services have the proper tools and expertise for this type of work.
4. Contact a Professional Tree Service
Call an Arborist: It’s advisable to contact a certified arborist or tree service company to assess the tree’s condition after a storm. A professional can evaluate whether the tree can be saved, pruned, or if removal is necessary. They also know how to safely handle damaged trees.
Emergency Services: Some tree care companies offer emergency services after storms, so they can respond quickly to secure your property and ensure that damaged trees don't pose an immediate hazard.
5. Document the Damage
Take Photos: For insurance purposes, document the damage by taking clear photos of the tree and any fallen debris. This will help when filing a claim, should you need to.
Contact Your Insurance: If the damage is significant and your tree or the surrounding property is covered, reach out to your homeowner’s insurance company to see if you are eligible for coverage related to storm damage.
6. Monitor Tree Health
Check for Signs of Disease or Stress: After the storm, the tree may be more susceptible to disease or pests. Keep an eye out for signs of distress, such as yellowing leaves, wilting, or fungal growth, and contact an arborist if any of these symptoms occur.
Water and Fertilize if Needed: In some cases, after storm damage, trees may need extra care to recover. Providing appropriate watering and fertilizing may help, but this should be done under the guidance of a professional.
7. Consider Tree Removal
If the Tree is Severely Damaged: If a tree has been severely damaged by the storm (e.g., a large portion of the trunk is broken or it’s leaning dangerously), it may need to be removed for safety. An arborist can help determine if removal is the best option.
By addressing storm damage promptly and carefully, you can help your tree recover if possible, or at least ensure the safety of your property. Always consider contacting a professional to avoid risks and get the right advice on how to proceed.
