Severe storms are a common occurrence in North Carolina, and with them come the risks of fallen trees and limbs. When a tree falls on your property during a storm, it can be a stressful and dangerous situation. Whether the tree has landed on your home, vehicle, or yard, knowing what to do next is critical for your safety and minimizing damage.
At NC Tree Experts, we’ve responded to countless storm-related emergencies across the Lexington-to-Raleigh area since 2014. Our fast, professional emergency tree removal services ensure homeowners get quick relief from hazardous situations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step what to do if a tree falls on your property during a storm.
Step 1: Ensure Your Safety First
Your safety and that of your family is the top priority.
- Stay indoors and away from the fallen tree until you can assess the situation safely.
- Avoid downed power lines or branches touching electrical wires. If you see any, call your local utility company immediately and keep everyone away.
- Be cautious of structural damage to your home, such as cracks, sagging roofs, or broken windows.
- If the tree has damaged your home severely or there is a gas leak smell, evacuate immediately and call 911.
Never attempt to remove large trees or limbs yourself, especially if power lines or structural damage are involved.
Step 2: Assess the Damage
Once it’s safe, inspect the damage carefully:
- Check if the tree is blocking any entrances or pathways.
- Determine if vehicles or structures like sheds, fences, or garages are affected.
- Document the damage with clear photos and videos from different angles—this will be helpful for insurance claims.
- Take note of any hazardous situations such as hanging limbs or unstable branches.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the damage to your homeowner’s insurance provider as soon as possible.
- Provide them with photos and descriptions of the damage.
- Ask about your coverage for tree removal and property repairs.
- Keep a record of all communication, including names and dates.
Many insurance policies cover emergency tree removal if the tree caused damage during a storm, but it’s important to confirm your policy details.
Step 4: Call a Professional Emergency Tree Removal Service
When a tree falls on your property, time is of the essence.
- Contact a licensed, insured tree removal company like NC Tree Experts.
- We provide rapid response emergency services, often arriving within hours to assess and secure the site.
- Professional crews have the expertise, equipment, and safety training to remove large fallen trees without causing further damage.
Avoid hiring unlicensed contractors or attempting DIY removal, as this can be dangerous and lead to costly mistakes.
Step 5: Secure Your Property
While waiting for professional help:
- Keep children and pets away from the fallen tree and surrounding area.
- Use temporary barriers or caution tape to mark off hazardous zones if possible.
- Cover broken windows or roof holes with tarps to prevent water intrusion.
- If safe, move vehicles away from the danger zone.
Step 6: Prepare for the Tree Removal Process
When the tree removal team arrives, they will:
- Conduct a thorough safety inspection.
- Plan the safest way to remove the tree, especially if it’s resting on structures or power lines.
- Communicate clearly with you about the steps involved, expected timeline, and costs.
- Remove debris and haul away wood and branches.
At NC Tree Experts, we pride ourselves on transparency and fast, respectful service.
Step 7: Repair and Restore
After the tree is removed:
- Schedule necessary repairs to your home, fence, driveway, or landscaping.
- Keep your insurance company updated with progress and receipts.
- Consider consulting an arborist to assess the health of any remaining trees on your property.
Step 8: Prevent Future Damage
Storms will happen, but you can reduce the risk of future tree damage by:
- Regularly inspecting trees for dead or weak branches.
- Scheduling professional tree trimming and pruning.
- Removing hazardous or diseased trees proactively.
- Ensuring trees are properly spaced and maintained to withstand strong winds.
Why Choose NC Tree Experts for Emergency Storm Damage?
- Over 10 years serving the Lexington to Raleigh area
- Fast response — often on-site within hours
- Skilled, fully insured, and professional crews
- Competitive pricing with no hidden fees
- Commitment to safety and customer satisfaction
Final Thoughts
Dealing with a fallen tree after a storm can be overwhelming, but by following these steps, you can protect your family, minimize damage, and get the help you need quickly.
If a tree falls on your property during a storm, don’t hesitate to reach out to NC Tree Experts for expert emergency tree removal services you can trust.
