New England weather can be unpredictable—intense storms can roll through any time of year, bringing high winds, heavy snow or rain, and lightning. These conditions can cause serious damage to your trees and property. At Marquis Tree Service, we want you to feel prepared before, during, and after a storm.
This guide will help you know exactly what to do when a tree falls, how to handle dangerous conditions like exposed roots or leaning trunks, and how our team can help with fast 24/7 emergency response, clean-up, and insurance documentation.
What to Do Immediately After a Tree Falls
If a tree has fallen on your property:
- Check for safety hazards first. Stay away from downed power lines or large, unstable branches. Call 911 if there is an immediate danger.
- Do not attempt major tree removal yourself. Large fallen trees can shift suddenly. Wait for professionals with the right equipment and training.
- Document the damage. Take clear photos from multiple angles for your insurance claim.
- Call a certified tree service. Marquis Tree Service offers 24/7 emergency storm response to safely remove debris and mitigate further damage.
Pro Tip: Add our number to your phone now so you don’t have to search in a panic later: Call us anytime at 781-860-9618.
How to Safely Handle Exposed Roots or Leaning Trees
After a severe storm, some trees may not fall completely but become unstable. Here’s what to watch for:
- Exposed roots: These indicate that the tree’s anchoring is compromised. Even if it’s still standing, it may fall with little warning.
- Leaning trunks: A new lean is a serious sign of failure in the root system or trunk structure.
- Cracks or splits: Check the trunk and major limbs. Fresh cracks can mean imminent breakage.
If you see these signs, keep clear of the area and call Marquis Tree Service right away at 781-860-9618. We can assess the risk and recommend the safest plan, whether that’s pruning to reduce weight, cabling for support, or removal if needed.
What You Can Do vs. What a Professional Should Do
After a storm, there are some safe, helpful steps you can take on your own—but there are also tasks that should always be left to trained professionals like Marquis Tree Service.
What You Can Do Yourself
Clear small, loose branches on the ground (as long as they’re not near power lines).- Pick up light debris like twigs or leaves to prevent slippery walkways.
- Visually inspect trees for new cracks, splits, or leans—then mark the area to keep others away.
- Document damage with photos for insurance.
What You Should Leave to the Pros
- Removing large branches caught in other trees or on structures.
- Cutting or moving a fallen tree (even if it seems stable—it can shift unexpectedly).
- Handling exposed roots or newly leaning trees, which may fall suddenly.
- Working near power lines, even if you think they’re inactive.
Important Warning: Trees and limbs that come into contact with power lines can become energized—even the ground around the tree can carry electrical current. You don’t need to touch a wire directly to be seriously injured or killed. Just getting too close is enough to pose a deadly risk.
That’s why everyone on the Marquis Tree Service team is EHAP Certified (Electrical Hazards Awareness Program) and trained extensively in working around energized lines. We understand the dangers and follow strict protocols to keep your property—and everyone on it—safe.
No matter how large, dangerous, or inaccessible the tree is, Marquis Tree Service can remove any tree, anywhere.
How Marquis Tree Service Can Help
Storm damage is stressful. Our certified arborist team is here to make it easier:
24/7 Emergency Tree Service
- Fast mobilization for urgent tree removals
- Clearing driveways, roofs, and structures safely
- Minimizing further property damage
Insurance-Friendly Documentation
- Detailed photos and reports to streamline your claim
- Clear, honest assessments of the damage and recommended solutions
Complete Clean-up
- Branch and debris removal
- Stump grinding if needed
- Hauling away all material so your yard is usable and safe again
Post-Storm Risk Evaluation
- Thorough inspection of all trees on your property
- Identification of hidden damage
- Recommendations for tree pruning, removal, or fertilization to restore health
Storm Preparation FAQ
What should I do if a tree falls on my house or car during a storm?
First, ensure your safety by staying clear of the affected area—especially if power lines are involved. Call 911 if there’s an immediate danger. Next, document the damage with photos for insurance purposes, and contact Marquis Tree Service for emergency tree removal. We offer 24/7 storm response and can help with insurance documentation.
Can I remove a fallen tree or large branch by myself?
It’s strongly advised not to. Even if a tree or limb looks stable, it may shift or fall unexpectedly. This can result in injury or further property damage. Always call a certified tree professional like Marquis Tree Service—we have the training and equipment to handle these situations safely.
How can I tell if a tree is at risk of falling after a storm?
Watch for signs like newly leaning trunks, exposed or heaving roots, or fresh cracks in the trunk or major limbs. These are signs the tree is unstable and could fall at any time. Avoid the area and call Marquis Tree Service immediately for a risk assessment.
What’s included in a post-storm tree inspection by Marquis Tree Service?
Our certified arborists conduct a comprehensive check for structural damage, hidden cracks, root instability, and canopy issues. We then provide a safety report with recommendations—whether it’s pruning, cabling, fertilization, or removal—to keep your property safe.
Let Us Help You Get Ready for the Next Storm
Don’t wait for the next big weather event to plan ahead. Marquis Tree Service can perform a storm risk assessment now, so you’ll have peace of mind for your home and property.
- Save our number now for emergencies: Contact us anytime at 781-860-9618.
Our professional, highly trained team is ready to help you protect your property—before, during, and after the storm.