When the Wind Howls: What to Do About Storm-Damaged Trees

When Storm Winds Strike: Understanding Your Tree Removal Options

When storms tear through Massachusetts and New Hampshire, who removes trees after a storm becomes an urgent question for homeowners. The answer depends on where the tree lands and who owns it, but understanding your responsibilities can save you time, money, and stress.

The New England region is no stranger to severe weather. Powerful nor’easters can bring heavy, wet snow that overloads branches, while summer thunderstorms produce violent microbursts and straight-line winds. The remnants of hurricanes can also track up the coast, saturating the ground and making even healthy trees vulnerable to uprooting. This unique combination of weather events means that tree failure is a year-round threat, not just a seasonal concern. Knowing how to respond is a critical part of homeownership in this area.

Quick Answer: Who Removes Storm-Damaged Trees

• Your property = Your responsibility – Homeowners must arrange and pay for removal of any tree that falls on their land, regardless of where it originally grew.
• City property – Municipal crews handle trees on public streets, sidewalks, and parks.
• Utility lines – Power companies remove trees threatening electrical infrastructure.
• Neighbor disputes – Generally handled through insurance claims, not neighbor liability.

The moments after a storm are overwhelming. A massive oak might be crushing your fence, or a leaning maple could threaten your home. Property damage from fallen trees costs thousands annually, and knowing the right steps protects your safety and wallet. The financial toll isn’t just in the removal; it includes structural repairs, landscaping restoration, and potential impacts on property value if hazardous trees are left unaddressed. This guide is designed to be your comprehensive resource for navigating this complex process from start to finish.

Whether you’re dealing with an emergency removal or planning preventive care, this guide covers everything you need to know about storm tree removal in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

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First Steps After the Storm: Safety and Assessment

The wind has stopped, but the danger hasn’t passed. Before you even think about who removes trees after a storm, your first priority is safety. Rushing outside too quickly is a common and dangerous mistake.

First, survey the area from inside your home. Downed power lines are your number one concern. Always assume they are live and deadly. Stay far away. Once you’ve confirmed it’s safe to go outside, keep your distance from any damage and begin documenting everything with your phone.

Take photos and videos of all damage for your insurance company. Capture wide shots to show the full scope and closer shots for specific details, all from a safe distance. Even if a tree looks stable, hidden structural problems can make it a ticking time bomb, which is why a professional assessment is crucial.

What Are the Hidden Dangers?

Storms create hazards that aren’t always obvious. Understanding what to watch for can prevent serious injury.

• Downed power lines: Trees and power lines are a lethal combination. If a tree or branch is touching a wire, the entire tree can become energized. Electricity can arc or travel through wet ground, fences, and other conductive materials. Keep everyone at least 35 feet away—the length of a school bus—and call 911 and your utility company (Eversource, National Grid, etc.) immediately. Do not exit your vehicle if a line has fallen on it.
• “Widowmakers”: This is an industry term for broken branches hanging precariously in the tree canopy, ready to fall without warning. They can be large, heavy limbs or smaller branches that are difficult to spot from the ground. A slight breeze or shift in the tree’s weight can send them crashing down. They are completely unpredictable and a primary reason why only professionals should work under a damaged tree.
• Tree tension: A fallen tree is not a simple log. It can be pinned under its own weight or bent over other objects, creating enormous stored energy (tension and compression). An amateur attempting to cut a tensioned limb can cause it to snap back with explosive force, turning a chainsaw into a projectile and causing severe injury or death.
• Unstable root systems: Saturated ground from heavy rain severely compromises a tree’s anchor system. Look for heaved or cracked soil, mounding dirt around the base, and newly exposed roots. These are clear warning signs that the entire root plate has been compromised and the tree could topple over completely with little to no warning.
• Delayed tree failure: A tree may look fine after a storm but have sustained internal cracks or root damage that is invisible to the naked eye. This damage can weaken the tree over time, causing it to fail weeks or even months later during a period of calm weather. A professional inspection by a certified arborist is the only way to identify this type of hidden risk.

When to Call for Emergency Help

Some situations require immediate professional attention. We offer 24/7 emergency services for urgent and dangerous tree problems.

• A tree has fallen on any structure: This includes your house, garage, shed, or car. The weight can cause ongoing structural damage and create an unstable environment. Never go inside a structure that has been hit by a tree until it has been deemed safe.
• Trees are blocking access: If your driveway or a primary access road is blocked, it’s a critical safety issue that prevents emergency vehicle access and traps residents. This should be prioritized.
• A tree is leaning precariously: A tree that has developed a new, significant lean, especially with exposed roots or heaved ground around the base, signals an imminent fall hazard. Evacuate the area in the potential fall path immediately.
• Trees are entangled with power lines: Never attempt to handle this yourself. Your first call must be to your utility company to de-energize and clear the lines. Once they have declared the area safe, a professional tree service can proceed with the removal.

Our experienced team has the specialized equipment and safety training for these emergencies. We use cranes and rigging to remove dangerous trees without making the situation worse. More info about our 24/7 emergency tree removal services is available on our website.

Determining Responsibility: Who Removes Trees After a Storm?

After the storm, the big question is: who removes trees after a storm? The rules might surprise you. Responsibility typically depends on a simple principle: where the tree lands matters more than where it came from.

Understanding these rules can save you from neighborly disputes, insurance headaches, and costly mistakes. Let’s break down who handles what when nature rearranges your landscape.

Your Property, Your Responsibility

Here’s the straightforward answer: if a tree or any part of it is on your land, it’s your job to remove it. This rule applies whether the tree grew in your yard, your neighbor’s yard, or on municipal property. You are responsible for arranging the removal, paying for the cleanup, and dealing with the debris on your side of the property line.

In Massachusetts and New Hampshire, most towns don’t require permits for removing storm-damaged trees that pose an immediate and obvious risk. However, it is always a wise precaution to call your town hall or local conservation commission, especially for large trees or if you live in an area with specific tree protection bylaws or a historic district. They can confirm if any special rules apply. If the property line is unclear and a dispute arises, a property survey may be necessary to definitively establish boundaries.

When Does the City or Utility Company Step In?

Homeowners handle most cleanup, but municipal crews and utility companies step in for issues of public safety and essential services.

• Municipal Responsibility: If a tree falls on public property like a street, sidewalk, or public park, your city or town is responsible for its removal. Report these situations immediately to your local Department of Public Works (DPW). Be specific about the location and the extent of the blockage. During a major storm, phone lines may be busy, so check the town’s website or social media for online reporting tools. The town’s responsibility ends at the property line; they will not remove parts of the tree that have fallen into your yard.
• Utility Company Responsibility: Utility companies (like Eversource or National Grid in MA and NH) are responsible for clearing trees and branches that threaten their infrastructure, such as power lines, poles, and transformers. Their primary goal is to restore service and ensure public safety. They will often only clear the portion of the tree that is directly interfering with their equipment. They may leave the rest of the wood and debris on the property for the homeowner to manage.

The Neighbor’s Tree Fell in My Yard – Now What?

This common scenario is governed by the “Act of God” principle in most jurisdictions. When a healthy tree falls during a storm, it’s considered a natural disaster, not your neighbor’s fault. This means that even though their tree is in your yard, you are typically responsible for removing the part on your property.

• Your Insurance Policy: This is your first line of defense. If the fallen tree damaged a covered structure (house, fence, garage), your homeowner’s insurance usually covers both the repairs and the cost of removing the tree from that structure. The coverage for removal itself is often capped, so check your policy details.
• No Structural Damage: If the neighbor’s tree falls in your yard but doesn’t damage anything, you are generally stuck with the removal costs. It feels unfair, but it’s the standard legal and insurance practice. Your policy’s limited debris removal coverage might apply, but it often won’t cover the full cost.
• The Exception: Negligence: The situation changes if you can prove your neighbor was negligent. Negligence means they knew the tree was a hazard and did nothing to correct it. To prove negligence, you typically need evidence that you formally notified your neighbor of the tree’s dangerous condition before the storm. This notification should ideally be in writing (e.g., a certified letter) and might include a report from a certified arborist you hired to assess the tree. Simply telling your neighbor you think the tree looks bad is usually not enough to establish legal liability.

What About Trees on the Property Line?

Trees whose trunks straddle a property line are called boundary trees and are co-owned by both property owners. In this case, both neighbors are jointly responsible for the care and maintenance of the tree. If a storm-damaged boundary tree needs to be removed, both homeowners typically share the cost. It’s best to discuss the situation with your neighbor and agree on a course of action and a tree service company before any work begins.

The best approach in all neighbor-related tree issues is clear, calm communication, thorough documentation with photos, and a prompt call to your insurance company to understand your coverage.

The Role of Homeowner’s Insurance and Costs

When a tree crashes down, the cleanup costs can be daunting. Fortunately, your homeowner’s insurance policy is a powerful tool for managing these expenses. Understanding how to work with your insurer and what to expect financially can make a stressful situation manageable.

Navigating Your Insurance Claim

Working through an insurance claim doesn’t have to be a headache. Preparation and clear communication are key.

1. Contact your insurer immediately after ensuring everyone is safe. Have your policy number ready and be prepared to describe the damage in detail. Ask them about your specific coverage for debris removal and what your deductible is.
2. Provide documentation. The photos and videos you took are vital. They are indisputable proof of the damage at a specific point in time. Send these to your claims representative as soon as possible.
3. Mitigate further damage. Your policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage. This might mean putting a tarp over a hole in the roof. Keep receipts for any materials you buy, as these are often reimbursable.
4. Keep a detailed log. Document every conversation with your insurance company, including the date, time, and name of the person you spoke with. This helps prevent miscommunication and keeps your claim on track.
5. Work with the adjuster. When the insurance adjuster visits, walk them through the damage. We often work directly with adjusters, providing detailed, itemized estimates and explaining the technical aspects of the removal (like the need for a crane or specialized rigging). This professional collaboration helps ensure you get the full coverage you’re entitled to.

Most standard homeowner’s policies cover tree removal costs when the tree damages a covered structure like a house, garage, or fence. However, coverage for removing a tree that falls without causing structural damage is often limited (e.g., a $500 or $1,000 cap) or non-existent. Review your specific policy to understand your coverage.

What Does Storm Damage Tree Removal Cost?

The cost to remove a storm-damaged tree varies widely. We always provide free, accurate quotes, but understanding the cost factors can help you prepare.

Average tree removal in Massachusetts and New Hampshire can range from $400 to $4,000+, with some large or hazardous removals exceeding $10,000. These are average costs based on internet data and not actual AA Tree Service costs, as every situation is unique.

• Tree Size: A small ornamental tree is less expensive to remove than a massive, mature oak with a wide trunk and sprawling canopy.
• Location and Access: A tree in an open front yard is easier and cheaper to remove than one in a tight, inaccessible backyard that requires manual hauling of every piece of debris.
• Complexity: This is the biggest cost driver in storm damage. A tree on your roof, tangled in power lines, or requiring a crane is exponentially more complex and costly. Crane rental alone can add thousands to a job, factoring in operator time, setup, and the size of the crane needed to safely lift heavy sections of wood over your home.
• Debris Hauling & Cleanup: Some quotes include hauling all wood and branches, while others may offer a lower price if you handle the debris. Be sure to clarify what’s included. Stump grinding to remove the remaining stump below ground level is almost always a separate, optional cost.

Beware of ‘Storm Chasers’ and Scams

After a major storm, out-of-state individuals, often called ‘storm chasers,’ may flood the area, going door-to-door offering tree removal services. Be extremely cautious. Many are uninsured, use unsafe practices, and perform shoddy work. They may demand large cash payments upfront and then disappear. Always choose a local, reputable company with a proven track record, proper insurance (liability and worker’s compensation), and certified arborists on staff. Ask for proof of insurance before letting anyone start work on your property.

Emergency removals outside normal business hours carry premium pricing due to the immediate response required. When you contact us for a free estimate, we provide a clear breakdown of all costs. You can Learn more about our tree removal process on our website.

Proactive Measures: How to Storm-Proof Your Trees

After a storm, many homeowners wonder if they could have prevented the damage. The answer is yes. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare our trees to better withstand high winds and heavy rain in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

Think of storm-proofing your trees as preventative care. A well-maintained tree is healthier, more beautiful, and far less likely to become a hazard that leaves you asking who removes trees after a storm.

The Importance of Professional Pruning and Trimming

Regular professional pruning is the single best thing you can do to prepare your trees for a storm. It’s about removing weak spots before they fail, not just aesthetics.

• Removing Deadwood: Dead, brittle branches are the first to snap in high winds, becoming dangerous projectiles. This process, known as ‘deadwooding,’ is a top priority during any pruning visit.
• Thinning the Crown: A dense canopy acts like a sail, catching the wind and putting immense stress on the trunk and roots. By selectively thinning branches (crown thinning), we allow wind to flow through the tree, reducing this force significantly.
• Structural Pruning: This is the most critical type of pruning for storm-proofing. We identify and correct poor structure, such as weak, V-shaped branch attachments with included bark, co-dominant stems that compete with each other, and branches that rub or cross. This gives the tree a stronger, more resilient frame to withstand storm forces.

Proper pruning reduces wind resistance, allowing trees to flex rather than break. This should only be done by a certified arborist who understands tree biology and will not over-prune or ‘top’ a tree, which is a harmful practice that creates future hazards. Explore our professional tree pruning and trimming services to see how we can help strengthen your trees.

When to Get a Professional Tree Health Assessment

Even healthy-looking trees can have hidden problems. A professional tree health assessment is like a physical for your trees, catching issues before they become emergencies.

We recommend annual inspections for mature trees, especially those near your home or other valuable property. Our certified professionals look for subtle signs of trouble that homeowners often miss:

• Signs of disease or decay: Fungus (mushrooms) growing at the base or on the trunk, deep cavities, discolored or prematurely falling leaves, or unusual peeling bark can all indicate internal rot.
• Leaning or cracks: A new or worsening lean, or a deep crack in the trunk or major limbs, requires immediate professional evaluation to assess the risk of failure.
• Root zone issues: Look for soil heaving, construction damage near the tree, or poor drainage, all of which can compromise the tree’s stability.

Identifying High-Risk Tree Species in New England

While any tree can fail in a severe storm, some species common to Massachusetts and New Hampshire are more prone to damage due to their growth habits or weak wood:

• Bradford Pear: Notorious for their weak branch structure, which splits apart easily.
• Silver Maple: Fast-growing with soft wood, making them susceptible to breakage.
• Willow Species: Often found near water, their wood is brittle and prone to cracking.
• White Pine: Can grow very tall and their long branches can break under heavy snow or ice.

The Role of Cabling and Bracing

For mature trees with structural defects, such as a split trunk or weak branch unions, removal isn’t the only option. A certified arborist may be able to install support systems. Cabling involves installing high-strength steel cables in the upper canopy to limit the movement of branches. Bracing uses threaded rods through the trunk or limbs to provide rigid support. These systems can add years to the life of a valuable tree and significantly reduce its risk of failure during a storm.

Early detection is the key. Catching problems early gives us more options, from targeted pruning and support cabling to the planned removal of a high-risk tree on your schedule, not during an emergency. An assessment is a smart investment in protecting your property.

Frequently Asked Questions about Storm-Damaged Tree Removal

After more than two decades in the tree service business in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we’ve heard every question imaginable about storm damage. Here are the answers to the most common concerns.

Who removes trees after a storm if they are on my private property?

You, the homeowner, are responsible for hiring a professional tree service for any tree that has fallen on your private property. This is true even if the tree originated in a neighbor’s yard. Once it’s on your land, the responsibility for removal is yours.

Will my insurance cover a tree that fell but didn’t hit anything?

Usually, no. Most standard homeowners insurance policies will only cover the cost of debris removal if the tree damages a covered structure like your house, garage, or fence. If a tree falls in an open yard without hitting anything, you will likely have to pay for the removal yourself. Check your specific policy, as some offer limited debris removal coverage (e.g., $500-$1,000), which may not cover the full cost of a large tree.

Can I remove a storm-damaged tree myself?

No. We strongly advise against it. Storm-damaged tree removal is extremely dangerous work that should only be performed by trained and insured professionals. Fallen trees are under unpredictable tension and can snap or roll unexpectedly, causing serious injury or death. The risk is compounded by potential hazards like hidden power lines and “widowmakers” (hanging broken limbs). The cost of professional removal is a small price to pay for your safety.

What should I look for when hiring a tree removal company after a storm?

Look for professionalism and legitimacy. After a storm, it’s crucial to hire a qualified company. Insist on seeing proof of both General Liability Insurance (to protect your property) and Worker’s Compensation Insurance (to protect their employees—and you from liability if they get hurt). Choose a local company with a good reputation and check their online reviews. A professional service will provide a detailed, written estimate and will not pressure you into an immediate decision or demand full payment upfront.

How long will it take for a crew to arrive after a major storm?

Patience is key, but emergencies are prioritized. After a widespread storm, reputable tree services are inundated with calls. We operate on a triage system. Situations where a tree is on a house, blocking access for emergency vehicles, or posing an immediate public threat are handled first. A tree down in the backyard with no structural damage will be scheduled after the more critical jobs are secured. We will always give you an honest timeframe and keep you updated.

What happens to the wood and debris after the tree is removed?

You have options, which should be discussed beforehand. This should be clearly outlined in your quote. Typically, a full-service removal includes cutting the tree into manageable sections, chipping all the smaller branches and brush, and hauling everything away, leaving your property clean. Some homeowners opt to keep the larger logs to be split for firewood, which can sometimes reduce the overall cost. Be sure to clarify if stump grinding is included, as it is usually a separate service.

Conclusion: Restoring Your Property Safely

When the storm passes, the question of who removes trees after a storm becomes urgent. This guide has walked you through the key steps to turn a chaotic situation into a manageable one. The core principles are clear:

• Safety First: Always assess damage from a distance, watching for hidden dangers like downed power lines, widowmakers, and tree tension.
• Responsibility is Clear: If a tree lands on your property, its removal is your responsibility, regardless of where it came from. Understand the nuances of neighbor and municipal involvement.
• Insurance is Your Ally: Understand your policy before you need it. Document everything, communicate clearly with your insurer, and know that coverage typically applies when a tree damages a structure.
• Prevention is Key: Regular, professional pruning, health assessments, and identifying high-risk trees are the best ways to prevent future storm damage and protect your investment.
• Hire a True Professional: In the chaotic aftermath of a storm, avoid scams by choosing a local, insured, and reputable tree service.

We’ve seen how overwhelming storm damage can be for homeowners. The stress of a damaged home combined with the confusion over responsibility and cost can feel like too much to handle. After more than 20 years of serving families in Massachusetts and New Hampshire, we know that restoring your property requires not just expertise and urgency, but also compassion and clear communication.

If you’re facing the aftermath of a storm, don’t handle it alone. Let our team of certified arborists and trained professionals take the weight off your shoulders. Contact us for a free, same-day quote on emergency tree removal and let our experienced team restore safety and order to your property. We’re here to help, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—because storms don’t wait, and neither do we.