Storm damage tree removal
When wind or a tropical system puts a tree on the house, what you do first matters. Here's the order to do it in.
Middle Georgia's storms come from several directions: summer thunderstorms, the remains of hurricanes moving inland, and the occasional tornado. When Hurricane Helene crossed Macon-Bibb County on September 26 and 27, 2024, the county reported downed trees and power lines and more than 6,000 families without power. In storms like that, the trees that fail are usually the ones that were already weak.
What should I do first?
- Look for wires. If anything touches a line, keep people and pets back and call the electric utility. Georgia Power says to treat every downed line as energized.
- Get people clear. If a tree is on the house, keep everyone out of the rooms beneath it.
- Take pictures. UGA Extension recommends photographing the damage before anything is cut or moved.
- Call your insurer. Ask what's covered and whether an adjuster needs to see it first.
- Call a tree service. Tell them what the tree is resting on so they bring the right equipment.
Should I cut it up myself?
Small limbs lying flat on the lawn, maybe. Anything bent, hung up in another tree or resting on a roof is different. UGA Extension warns that energy stored in compressed limbs and trunks can release suddenly and explosively when cut. That's a job for a crew with rigging and experience.
Who cleans up the debris?
Georgia Power says it will cut trees out of its lines after a storm so power can be restored, but cleaning up the wood and brush is the property owner's job. Ask the tree company whether hauling is included in its quote.
Watch out for storm chasers
Georgia has no state license specific to tree care, so anyone with a saw and a trailer can knock on doors after a storm. Before you sign, get a written quote, ask for a certificate of insurance, and avoid paying most of the job up front.
Check the pines afterward
The Georgia Forestry Commission says storm-damaged pines attract Ips engraver beetles, which can then spread to healthy pines nearby. Have broken or leaning pines looked at soon after the cleanup.
Price is set by the tree company after it sees the tree, what's underneath it and how a truck, lift or grinder can reach it. We don't quote prices, and any figure given over the phone without a site visit is only a rough starting point.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Will homeowners insurance pay to remove a fallen tree?
It depends on your policy and what the tree hit. Call your insurer before major work starts and keep photos and receipts.
A tree is lying on my power line. Who do I call?
Your electric utility, first. Stay back and keep others away until the utility says the line is safe.
Related services
More background: Macon tree removal guide.
Water oak over the bedroom, a pine snapped in the last storm, or a stump in the middle of the yard?
Call and get connected with a Middle Georgia tree service that can come look at it.