After-Storm Tree Safety Inspection Checklist
Well, that was exciting, wasn’t it? Another classic Los Angeles weather rollercoaster. One minute it’s sunny, the next, we’re convinced a palm tree might end up in our swimming pool. Now that the skies have cleared, it’s time for the not-so-glamorous part: figuring out what that wind and rain actually did to our trees.
We get it. Your first instinct after a storm is to fire up the grill or finally tackle that flooded patio. But taking twenty minutes to do a quick, safe visual inspection of your trees can save you a massive headache (and a potentially massive bill) down the line. Think of it as preventative medicine for your landscape. Let’s walk through this together, step-by-step.
The 20-Minute Yard Walkthrough: Your Eyes on the Prize
Before you even think about getting out a ladder or a chainsaw, let’s keep things simple and safe. Your initial inspection is a ground-level affair. We’re looking for the obvious red flags that even a non-arborist can spot.
Start from a Distance
First, grab a cool drink and just look at your trees from your patio or sidewalk. Does the overall structure look right? Is the tree leaning in a new, more dramatic way than before? Sometimes, a big-picture view can reveal issues you’d miss up close.
The “Danger Zone” Walk
Now, take a slow walk around each tree, but give it a wide berth. We’re talking at least the distance of the tree’s height. Why? Because if a branch is precariously hung up, your footsteps could be the final nudge it needs to let go. Not exactly the kind of surprise we’re looking for.
What Are We Actually Looking For? A Spotter’s Guide
This is where we get into the nitty-gritty. You don’t need to be a certified arborist to identify these common post-storm issues. You just need to know what to look for.
The Big, Obvious Stuff You Can’t Miss
Some problems aren’t shy about announcing themselves.
- Hanging or Broken Limbs: These are the classic “widowmakers.” Look for large branches that are cracked and dangling or completely broken off but are still caught in the canopy. They are unstable and a primary reason to call a professional tree trimming service immediately.
- Split Trunks or Major Limbs: See a crack that runs right down the middle of the trunk or a primary branch? This is a serious structural issue. It often means the tree’s integrity is compromised.
- Complete Uprooting: This one is pretty self-explanatory. If the tree is on its side, the root ball is exposed, and it’s clearly checking out the view from a new angle, the decision has been made for you. This is a tree removal situation.
The Sneaky, Subtle Signs of Trouble
These are the issues that might not look like a big deal but can signal major problems.
- Cracks in the Trunk or Branches: Look for vertical cracks in the wood. Even small ones can be a point of weakness that expands over time or during the next storm.
- Damaged or Exposed Roots: Did the storm wash away the soil around the base? Are there large roots that are severed or lifted out of the ground? A tree’s root system is its foundation; damage here is a huge red flag.
- Fungus or Decay: Storms can expose pre-existing decay you might not have noticed. Look for mushrooms or conks growing on the trunk or roots. This is often a sign of internal rot.
- The Canopy Looks Thin: Did the tree lose a significant amount of its leaves or needles? While some leaf loss is normal, a suddenly sparse canopy can indicate root or branch damage.
The “Leave It to the Pros” List: When to Put the Ladder Away
We love a good DIY project as much as the next person, but some tasks are like performing your own dentistry—best left to trained professionals. Here’s a quick list of situations where you should stop, back away, and pick up the phone.
- Any damage involving power lines. Just don’t. Not even a little bit. Call your utility company.
- Large branches hanging high in the canopy. Your ladder and your home-owner-grade chainsaw are not the right tools for this job.
- Major splits in the trunk or primary limbs. This requires cabling, bracing, or removal that only tree trimmers with the right experience and insurance should handle.
- A tree that has fallen on a structure. The tension and pressure in the wood are unpredictable.
- Any situation where you feel even slightly unsure. Trust your gut. It’s smarter than you think.
When you see these issues, that’s your cue to call in a local team like ours at ClearWay Tree Trimming Solutions. We have the gear and the know-how to handle these hazardous situations safely. Trying to save a few bucks on the cost by doing it yourself can lead to property damage or personal injury, which is, FYI, not very affordable in the long run.
Your Post-Storm Tree Inspection Cheat Sheet
To make this super easy, here’s a quick-reference table you can mentally check off during your inspection.
| What to Check For | What It Looks Like | Your Action Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Hanging/Widowmaker Branches | Large limbs cracked and dangling, caught in other branches. | Mark the area as a danger zone and call a pro. Do not walk under it. |
| New or Severe Leaning | The tree is tilting at a new angle, soil may be lifted on one side. | Could indicate root failure. Get a professional assessment ASAP. |
| Split Trunk or Limbs | A deep, vertical crack running down the center of the wood. | A major structural issue. Requires immediate professional evaluation. |
| Exposed or Broken Roots | Soil washed away, large roots snapped or lifted out of the ground. | The tree’s stability is compromised. A pro can determine if it can be saved. |
| Fungus & Decay | Mushrooms, conks, or soft, crumbly wood on the trunk or roots. | Sign of internal rot. Have an arborist assess the structural soundness. |
| Minor Branch Damage | Small, broken twigs and branches at the ends of limbs. | You can likely clean this up yourself once it’s safe. |
Okay, I Found a Problem. What’s the Game Plan?
So your inspection turned up something concerning. Don’t panic. Here’s a logical next steps plan.
- Secure the Area: The first and most important step is to keep everyone—people and pets—away from the danger zone. Use rope, traffic cones, or just a couple of lawn chairs to mark a perimeter. Better safe than sorry.
- Document the Damage: Take clear photos from multiple angles. This is crucial for insurance claims and will also help when you’re describing the situation to a tree service.
- Call a Reputable Pro: This is where you want to do a tiny bit of homework. Look for a certified, insured local company. IMO, skipping this step and hiring the guy with a chainsaw in his pickup truck is a huge gamble. For folks in our area, a quick search for “tree service near me” will bring up a bunch of options, including us at ClearWay Tree Trimming Solutions. We’re based right here in Los Angeles and know exactly how these storms impact our local species, from oaks to those finicky eucalyptus and, yes, even palm tree removal.
- Get a Clear Assessment and Quote: A good company will give you a straight story on what needs to be done, whether it’s tree trimming, tree cutting for removal, or even just monitoring. They should also provide a transparent price for the work. You should never feel pressured into services you don’t need.
Clearing Up the Confusion: Your Tree Care Questions Answered
We hear the same questions from our neighbors all the time after a storm. Let’s tackle a few of the big ones.
Can a tree with a split trunk be saved?
Sometimes, yes! It depends on the size, location, and severity of the split. Smaller splits on younger trees can sometimes be bolted and braced by a professional. Larger, more severe splits often mean the tree is a candidate for tree removal. An on-site assessment is the only way to know for sure.
My tree looks fine, but a big branch fell. Is the tree okay?
Maybe. A single branch failure can be an isolated incident, especially if it was a weak, dead, or poorly attached limb. However, it can also be a symptom of a larger issue, like decay in the trunk or root problems. It’s always worth having a pro take a look to ensure the rest of the tree is structurally sound. We can handle the stump removal afterward, too, so you get a clean slate.
How do I know if I need an emergency tree service?
Ask yourself: “Is this an immediate threat to people or property?” If a large limb is resting on your roof, if a tree is leaning heavily over your driveway, or if there’s any contact with power lines, then yes, that’s an emergency. For less urgent issues, like a broken branch in the middle of the yard, you can usually schedule a visit within a few days.
Wrapping Up: Your Peace of Mind is the Goal
Look, we all love the trees that make Los Angeles so beautiful. The goal here isn’t to panic you into a tree cutting frenzy. It’s to give you the confidence to know what to look for after a storm and the wisdom to know when to call for backup.
A little proactive vigilance protects your property, your family, and your investment in your landscape. And if your inspection reveals something that makes you nervous, you know who to call. The team at ClearWay Tree Trimming Solutions is always here to help you clear the way to a safer, more beautiful yard. Now, who’s ready for some calm weather? 🙂
