What To Do After Storm Damage: A Homeowner's Guide to Fallen Trees

Oklahoma storms can arrive with little warning and leave significant damage behind. High winds, heavy rain, lightning, and severe weather can weaken or completely topple trees, creating dangerous situations for homeowners.

If a storm has recently passed through Tulsa, Sapulpa, Jenks, Glenpool, Sand Springs, or the surrounding communities, it's important to know what steps to take before beginning cleanup.

While it may be tempting to grab a chainsaw and start cutting, storm-damaged trees often present hidden hazards that can lead to serious injuries or property damage.

Here's what homeowners should know after a storm impacts their property.

Step 1: Stay Away From Damaged Trees

Your first priority should always be safety.

A tree may appear stable while hiding significant structural damage. Cracked trunks, broken limbs, damaged root systems, and hanging branches can fail unexpectedly.

After a storm, avoid:

  • Standing beneath damaged limbs
  • Climbing on fallen trees
  • Pulling on partially broken branches
  • Cutting limbs under tension
  • Entering areas with unstable trees

Many storm-related injuries occur during cleanup rather than during the storm itself.

If you notice a tree leaning toward your home, driveway, or another structure, maintain a safe distance until it can be evaluated by a professional.

Step 2: Watch for Power Lines

One of the most dangerous situations following a storm involves trees contacting power lines.

If a tree has fallen on utility lines:

  • Stay away from the area
  • Keep family members and pets clear
  • Contact the utility company immediately
  • Never attempt removal yourself

Even if a line appears inactive, it should always be treated as energized until utility personnel confirm otherwise.

Safety should always come before cleanup.

Step 3: Document Damage for Insurance Purposes

Before cleanup begins, take photos of any damage affecting your property.

Photograph:

  • Fallen trees
  • Damaged structures
  • Roof damage
  • Fence damage
  • Vehicles affected by the storm
  • Broken limbs and debris

Documentation can be valuable if you need to file an insurance claim.

Capturing clear photos before any removal work begins helps establish the condition of the property immediately following the storm.

Step 4: Don't Attempt Dangerous Tree Removal Yourself

Many homeowners underestimate the risks associated with storm-damaged trees.

Unlike healthy trees, damaged trees often contain:

  • Cracked wood
  • Internal stress points
  • Unstable root systems
  • Hanging limbs
  • Unexpected weight distribution

A cut made in the wrong location can cause a tree or limb to move unpredictably.

This is one of the reasons professional tree removal companies invest heavily in safety equipment, training, insurance coverage, and specialized equipment.

If a tree is located near your home, garage, fence, power line, or other structure, professional assistance is strongly recommended.

To learn more about our professional tree care solutions, visit:

https://www.hickmantrees.com/services

Step 5: Have Trees Professionally Evaluated

Not every storm-damaged tree needs to be removed.

In many cases, corrective pruning or maintenance can restore the tree's health and reduce future risks.

A professional evaluation can help determine:

  • Whether the tree is structurally sound
  • If removal is necessary
  • Whether pruning can solve the issue
  • Potential hazards that may not be visible from the ground

Early evaluation often prevents future emergencies and allows homeowners to make informed decisions about their property.

Signs a Tree May Need Removal After a Storm

Following severe weather, pay close attention to trees displaying:

  • Significant leaning
  • Cracked trunks
  • Split leaders
  • Uprooted root systems
  • Large broken limbs
  • Extensive canopy damage
  • Signs of internal decay

While some damage can be repaired, severe structural defects often make removal the safest long-term option.

Why Hiring an Insured Tree Service Matters

After a major storm, it's common to see temporary contractors and uninsured operators offering tree removal services.

Before hiring anyone, ask:

  • Are they licensed, bonded, and insured?
  • Do they carry workers' compensation coverage?
  • Do they have experience with hazardous tree removals?
  • Do they follow professional arboriculture standards?
  • Do they have ISA Certified Arborist expertise available?

Price is important, but so is protecting your home, family, and financial liability.

Choosing a qualified tree service often helps avoid costly mistakes and property damage.

At Hickman Tree Service, we are committed to safe, professional tree care backed by experience, proper insurance coverage, and a dedication to customer service.

Financing Options for Storm-Damaged Trees

Storm damage rarely happens at a convenient time.

When a tree becomes a safety hazard, delaying removal can increase the risk of additional damage and higher costs later.

That's why Hickman Tree Service offers financing options through Wisetack.

Financing may be helpful for:

  • Emergency tree removals
  • Large tree projects
  • Storm cleanup
  • Multiple tree removals
  • Unexpected property repairs

Learn more about available financing options here:

https://www.hickmantrees.com/financing

Why Homeowners Trust Hickman Tree Service

Homeowners throughout Tulsa, Sapulpa, and surrounding communities trust Hickman Tree Service because we focus on doing the job safely and correctly.

Our team is known for:

  • Professional service
  • Fair pricing
  • Experienced crews
  • Licensed, bonded, and insured operations
  • Financing options available
  • Commitment to customer satisfaction

Whether you're dealing with storm damage, a hazardous tree, or routine maintenance, we're here to help protect your property.

Learn more about Hickman Tree Service by visiting:

https://www.hickmantrees.com

Schedule Your Free Estimate

If a recent storm has damaged trees on your property, don't wait for the problem to get worse.

A professional evaluation can help identify safety concerns, determine the best course of action, and prevent additional property damage.

Contact Hickman Tree Service today to schedule your free estimate:

https://www.hickmantrees.com/contact