What to do if a tree is damaged after a storm
Stay well clear of the tree and keep children and pets inside. If the tree is on a car, roof or fence, do not attempt to move it. If there is any contact with overhead power lines, call the network operator immediately and treat all cables as live.
Take photographs from a safe distance for your insurer, then call a qualified emergency tree surgeon rather than a general contractor.
Signs a tree may be dangerous
After a storm, walk the perimeter of your garden and look up. Warning signs include cracked or hanging branches, split forks, exposed root plates, unusual leaning, bark tearing and freshly opened cavities. Any of these mean the tree needs professional inspection before it is used or approached.
Even trees that look intact can be internally damaged after high winds. A trained arborist can assess this from the ground.
Fallen branches and blocked access
Fallen limbs across drives, gates and paths are one of the most common storm callouts we take. We clear the access first, then assess the wider tree to decide whether it can be saved with careful reduction or needs to come down.
Why emergency tree work needs professionals
Storm-damaged trees are under stored tension. Cutting the wrong branch can release energy suddenly and cause serious injury. Emergency tree work requires the correct rigging, saws, PPE and — often — a MEWP or crane to work above the damage rather than under it.
Woods Tree Specialists holds the right qualifications and insurance to carry out this work safely.
South Coast emergency coverage
We cover Bognor Regis, Chichester, Littlehampton, Worthing, Portsmouth and the surrounding villages. Our aim is to attend genuine emergencies within 24 hours, and often the same day if we're already on site nearby.
Call Woods Tree Specialists
If you have a storm-damaged tree, split limb or fallen branch, call 07746 481759 or 01243 943267. We'll take the details, give you honest advice on the phone, and get someone to you as quickly as possible.
Related pages on our site
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can an emergency tree surgeon attend?
We aim to reach genuine emergencies across West Sussex within 24 hours, often the same day.
Will my house insurance cover emergency tree work?
Many buildings insurance policies cover storm-damage tree removal — always take photographs and check your policy wording before instructing work.
What if the tree is touching a power line?
Call your electricity network operator immediately and stay well clear. Only qualified tree surgeons with UA1/UA2 training should work near live lines.
Do you work out of hours?
For genuine emergencies — trees on buildings, blocking access or leaning dangerously — yes, we do our best to attend as soon as possible.
Can a tree be saved after storm damage?
Sometimes. Careful crown reduction, dead-wooding and bracing can save a tree if the main structure is intact. We'll always advise honestly.
Need a quote for Emergency Tree Work?
Tell us about the job and add photos if helpful. We’ll carry your article details into the enquiry form.
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