What to Do After Storm Tree Damage in Sudbury, MA
New England storms are serious. Between nor'easters, heavy wet snow, and summer thunderstorms with high winds, trees in Sudbury and MetroWest MA take a beating. When one comes down — or partially comes down — the next 30 minutes matter. Here's what to do.
Step 1: Stay Back
A storm-damaged tree is structurally unpredictable. What looks like a tree that's mostly down may still have major tension in hanging limbs or the residual trunk. Do not walk underneath it. Do not try to push, pull, or cut anything yourself. Keep kids and pets away from the area.
Step 2: Check for Utility Contact
If the tree has come down on or near power lines, call your utility company first. This is a utility emergency, not a tree emergency. Do not touch any line — even if you think it's not energized.
Step 3: Document Before Anything Is Moved
Take photos from a safe distance. Capture the full extent of the tree and where it landed, any damage to structures, vehicles, or fences, and the base of the tree and root situation. This documentation is critical for insurance claims. Your homeowner's policy typically covers tree removal when a tree damages a structure — but they want to see the scene before cleanup.
Step 4: Call Your Insurance Company
If a tree has landed on your house, detached garage, fence, or vehicle, call your insurance company to open a claim before tree removal begins. We can provide written documentation of the situation and the work performed.
Step 5: Call a Professional Tree Service
This is not a chainsaw-and-pickup-truck job. Cutting a storm-damaged tree incorrectly can cause it to shift, fall, or spring in ways that cause additional damage or injury. Call a professional. Dennis Tree Service handles storm damage throughout Sudbury, Wayland, Weston, Concord, Maynard, and surrounding towns. We've been on hundreds of these jobs.
What If the Tree Missed the House But Is Blocking the Driveway?
If nothing is damaged and the tree is just blocking access, it's still worth calling a professional for removal rather than attempting it yourself — but it's less urgent than a tree on a structure. We'll work with your schedule.
