After a storm, a fallen or split tree can block driveways, damage roofs and cars, or hang dangerously over the home. Emergency tree crews have the equipment and training to remove it safely and quickly.
Sifixit is a free referral service. Call the number on this page and you will be connected with an independent tree service provider where one serves your area. Calling costs nothing and you are never obliged to hire anyone.
When you need emergency removal
Call right away in these situations.
- A tree has fallen on the house, a car or a fence
- A tree is blocking a driveway or road
- A large branch is cracked and hanging
- A tree is leaning more after a storm
- Roots have lifted out of the ground
- A tree is touching power lines
What to do right now
Stay far away from fallen trees and any wires touching them. Call 911 or your utility for power lines. Do not enter rooms where a tree has come through the roof.
- Get everyone to a safe part of the home or outside
- Call 911 or the utility if wires are involved
- Photograph the damage from a safe distance
- Call your insurer
- Call an emergency tree service
- Cover roof openings only once the tree is removed
How emergency removal works
Assessment
The crew checks for wires, damage and how the tree is resting.
Controlled removal
The tree is cut in sections and lowered, sometimes with a crane.
Roof protection
Once the tree is off, openings are covered to keep rain out.
Cleanup
Branches and wood are hauled away, and stumps ground if needed.
What the crew does
- The crew makes sure power lines are safe, working with the utility.
- The tree is removed in controlled sections.
- Damage to the home is protected with tarps or boards.
- Debris is cleared from the property.
- The crew can document the work for your insurer.
Insurance and fallen trees
- If a tree damages a covered structure, removal is often covered up to limits
- Trees that fall without hitting anything are often not covered
- Keep photos and receipts
- Ask the crew for an itemized invoice
- Check whether your policy has a tree removal limit
Questions to ask before you hire
- How quickly can you come out?
- Are you insured, including for crane work?
- Will you work with the utility if wires are involved?
- Will you tarp the roof after removal?
- Is haul away included?
Frequently asked questions about emergency tree removal
Who removes a tree on power lines?
The utility handles lines and trees touching them. Call them first.
Does insurance cover emergency tree removal?
Often, when the tree damaged a covered structure. Check your policy limits.
How fast can a tree be removed?
Many crews offer same day or next day emergency service, depending on storms and demand.
Should I remove the tree myself?
No. Fallen trees under tension can move unexpectedly and are very dangerous.
Learn more
Our main tree service guide covers the wider picture, including what affects the cost and when to call a professional.
Looking for emergency tree removal? Call the number on this page to be connected with an independent local provider. For more background, see the International Society of Arboriculture’s homeowner site.
This site is a free service to assist homeowners in connecting with local service contractors. All contractors are independent and this site does not warrant or guarantee any work performed. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to verify that the hired contractor furnishes the necessary license and insurance required for the work being performed. All persons depicted in a photo or video are actors or models and not contractors listed on this site.
Helpful guides
- Stump grinding vs stump removal: which do you needStump grinding shaves the stump down below ground level and leaves the roots to rot naturally.