First step: keep people, pets and vehicles away from the tree and do not cut, climb or pull on damaged branches. If power lines are involved, stay well clear and contact the electricity provider or emergency service.
Check the immediate danger
Look from a safe distance for a tree on a roof, blocked road, broken branches hanging overhead, exposed roots, or a trunk leaning toward people or property. Storm-damaged limbs can fall without warning. Do not stand beneath a suspended branch or use a ladder against a damaged tree.
What to photograph
Once the area is safe, take wide photographs showing the tree and the property, then closer images of the break, roots and damage. Include a photo that shows nearby walls, roofs, vehicles or services. These records can help explain the work to a property owner or insurer, but insurance coverage depends on the policy and the insurer’s decision.
When to call an emergency tree service
Contact a qualified tree service when a tree threatens a structure, access route or people, or when large limbs are suspended. Emergency tree removal may involve making the area safe first and returning for full cleanup later. Tell the team whether the road is blocked, whether power lines are affected and whether anyone is injured.
After the emergency
Once the immediate hazard is controlled, decide whether logs and branches should be removed or chipped. If a stump remains, stump grinding can make the area easier to use. Ask for the scope, waste handling and any follow-up work in writing.
Serving the Lowveld
Lowveld Tree Care is based in Nelspruit and works across Mpumalanga, including White River, Hazyview, Sabie, Barberton, Lydenburg and Komatipoort. Contact the team with your location and safe photographs.
Tree damage after a storm?
Keep clear and message the team with your location and the nature of the hazard.
Get help with the next step