Severe storms in Pennsylvania can bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and snow—all of which
can cause trees to fall unexpectedly. Whether the damage is minor or catastrophic, knowing
what to do if a tree falls on your property is essential for safety, insurance, and timely cleanup.
At Sunny Slope Tree Service, we help homeowners safely recover from storm damage with
expert tree removal and emergency services. Here’s what you need to know if a tree falls on
your property.
1. Prioritize Safety Immediately
The first step after a tree falls is to assess for immediate danger—without putting yourself at
risk.
- If there are downed power lines, stay far away and call your utility provider (such as PPL Electric) right away.
- If the situation is life-threatening, dial 911.
- Never approach a tree that is touching electrical lines or blocking a major roadway.
Downed power lines are extremely hazardous, and the area should only be accessed once
cleared by professionals. Tree removal should only begin after the scene is deemed safe by
utility crews or emergency responders.
2. Shut Off Utilities if Your Home Is Damaged
If a tree has fallen on your home, it’s important to shut off your main utilities if it can be done
safely. This includes:
- Electricity
- Gas or propane
- Water (if pipes are affected)
Tree impacts can cause hidden damage to utility lines, creating fire, gas leak, or electrical
hazards. Once the area is secure, document the damage and contact your insurance company.
3. Contact a Professional Tree Service Company for
Emergency Cleanup
Once you’ve alerted emergency services and utility companies (if needed), your next call should
be to a licensed and insured tree removal company.
Sunny Slope Tree Service offers rapid-response emergency tree removal, often within 24
hours or less for urgent cases. We specialize in:
- Trees fallen on homes
- Trees blocking driveways or access points
- Cleanup after widespread storm damage
Even if the tree is not causing immediate danger—such as lying in a yard—professional
removal is still recommended to prevent property damage, pest infestation, or safety issues.
4. Understand Who’s Responsible for Cleanup
In most cases, the property owner is responsible for trees that fall within or from their
yard. Here’s how that typically breaks down:
- If the tree originated on your property: You are responsible for cleanup and repairs, even if it fell across a public road.
- If it fell on power lines: The utility company may remove parts of the tree necessary to restore service, but they will not handle full cleanup.
- If it blocks a public road: Your township may move it aside to reopen the road, but complete removal is usually the homeowner’s responsibility.
It’s a good idea to check with your municipality or homeowners insurance to understand specific
responsibilities.
5. Emergencies vs. Non-Emergencies: How to Tell the
Difference
Not all fallen trees qualify as emergencies. Here’s a quick guide:
Emergency Tree Situations:
- Tree has fallen on a home or structure
- Tree is blocking a driveway or road
- Tree is tangled in power lines or leaning dangerously
Non-Emergency Tree Situations:
- Tree is down in the yard with no immediate hazard
- Tree limbs or branches have fallen but not caused damage
In all cases, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection. What may look harmless on the
surface can pose unseen risks, such as internal cracking or unstable root systems.
6. Why DIY Tree Removal Is Dangerous
Attempting to cut or remove a storm-damaged tree on your own can lead to serious injury—or
worse. Risks include:
- Electrocution from hidden power lines
- Falling limbs
- Unpredictable trunk movement (known as “barber chair” splitting)
- Damage to structures or vehicles
Tree removal requires the right equipment, expertise, and safety protocols. Always leave it to
trained professionals.
Storm Damage? Call Sunny Slope Tree Service
When a storm hits, don’t take chances with your safety or your property. At Sunny Slope Tree
Service, we provide fast, professional storm damage cleanup across South-central
Pennsylvania. Our experienced team will assess the situation, remove fallen trees safely, and
help restore your property with minimal stress.
Contact us today to schedule an emergency service or storm damage assessment.
