How Do I Safely Inspect Tree Damage After a Storm?

At 1 Tree Emergency, we specialize in emergency tree services and post-storm response, so we know what to look for when assessing storm damage. This guide will help you understand how to safely inspect trees after a storm, what warning signs to check for, and when it’s time to call a professional.

How Do I Safely Inspect Tree Damage After a Storm?

When a big storm hits, trees often take the brunt of it — and figuring out what’s safe (and what’s not) can be stressful. Whether it’s high winds, heavy rain, or lightning, damaged trees can pose serious harm to your home, property, and anyone nearby.

At 1 Tree Emergency, we specialize in emergency tree services and post-storm response, so we know what to look for when assessing storm damage. This guide will help you understand how to safely inspect trees after a storm, what warning signs to check for, and when it’s time to call a professional.

Step 1: Stay Safe and Survey from a Distance

Before walking around your yard, take a careful look from a distance. Safety should always come first.

Do not approach any tree that is:

• Touching or close to power lines

• Hanging over your home or car

• Split, cracked, or leaning more than before the storm

If you notice these signs, step back immediately and contact emergency services or a certified tree professional like 1 Tree Emergency. Damaged trees can collapse suddenly without warning.

Step 2: Look for Obvious Structural Damage

Once you’re sure the area is safe, begin a basic visual inspection. You don’t need to climb or touch anything—just observe.

Here’s what to look for:

• Broken or hanging limbs:

  These are dangerous and can fall unexpectedly.

• Splits or cracks in the trunk:

  Structural damage like this means the tree’s stability is compromised.

• Uprooted roots or lifted soil:

  This often means the tree is leaning and may topple soon.

• Missing bark or exposed wood:

  Indicates internal injury and potential decay.

If any of these issues are visible, it’s best to contact a professional tree damage inspection service immediately. Even minor cracks can worsen over time or with another storm.

Step 3: Check the Tree’s Canopy and Branches

The top of the tree often reveals the most about its condition after a storm. Use binoculars if needed and look for:

• Broken tops or “split leaders”

  (where the top of the tree has snapped)

• Branches tangled or lodged in other limbs

• Large sections of missing leaves or foliage

These signs often mean the tree has sustained serious stress and may not recover fully without pruning or partial removal.

Step 4: Examine the Base and Surrounding Ground

A healthy root system anchors the tree. After heavy rain or wind, inspect the base for:

• Soft or spongy soil around the trunk

• Cracks in the ground where roots may have shifted

• Fungal growth that suggests rot

Even if the tree looks upright, hidden root damage can cause delayed failure. That’s why many homeowners call 1 Tree Emergency for a post-storm root inspection—our team uses specialized tools and experience to detect what’s happening below the surface.

Step 5: Identify Partial Failures Early

Not every damaged tree shows obvious signs right away. Some may appear stable but have internal cracks or torn branches that will fall later.

You may notice:

• Leaning that wasn’t there before

• Branches suddenly drooping or losing color

• Exposed wood that looks wet or splintered

If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to bring in a certified arborist or emergency tree specialist. They can perform a full safety assessment and figure out whether the tree can be saved or needs removal.

Step 6: Document the Damage

If the storm damage may lead to an insurance claim, documentation is key. Take clear photos from multiple angles—before any cleanup begins.

Include:

• The entire tree

• Close-ups of cracks, broken limbs, or uprooted areas

• Any surrounding property damage

At 1 Tree Emergency, we work directly with insurance carriers and adjusters. Our crews provide detailed photo and video documentation, timestamps, and reports that help move claims along faster.

Step 7: Know When to Call for Emergency Tree Service

You should contact a storm damage tree removal team immediately if:

• The tree or large branches are resting on your home, fence, or vehicle

• There are downed power lines

• A tree is leaning dangerously or has uprooted

• You hear cracking or popping noises near the trunk

Emergency tree removal should be handled by professionals with the right equipment. At 1 Tree Emergency, our crews are available 24/7 to handle hazardous tree situations safely and efficiently.

Step 8: Plan for Recovery and Prevention

Once the immediate danger is handled, it’s smart to think ahead. Regular tree care can reduce future storm risks.

Here’s how to strengthen your trees long-term:

• Schedule annual pruning to remove weak or overgrown branches

• Have large trees inspected before storm season

• Keep trees properly watered and fertilized for strong root growth

• Remove any dead or diseased trees early

A little maintenance can go a long way toward avoiding another stressful cleanup in the next storm.

Final Thoughts

Storms can leave behind hidden dangers that aren’t always obvious right away. The key is to stay safe, assess from a distance, and call in experts when needed.

At 1 Tree Emergency, we provide 24/7 emergency tree service, damage assessments, and complete debris removal for homeowners, municipalities, and insurance partners across the country. Our goal is always the same, to keep your property safe and help you recover quickly after severe weather.

📞 Need help after a storm? Contact 1 Tree Emergency for immediate assistance.

Our trained crews are available day and night for emergency tree removal, inspections, and claim support.