Severe storms can leave behind broken trees, fallen limbs, and blocked driveways. If your property has been hit by a storm in Habersham County, it’s important to act quickly and safely. Storm damage clean up involves more than removing debris. It requires assessing hazards, protecting structures, and working with licensed professionals to avoid further risks.
Here’s what you need to know and the steps to take immediately after a storm.
What to Do After a Storm
1. Stay Clear of Damaged Trees
Storm-damaged trees can be unstable. Avoid touching or moving limbs, especially if they’re near structures or power lines. Keep children and pets away from the area.
2. Contact Emergency Services if Needed
If a tree has fallen on your home, is blocking the road, or is tangled in electrical lines, call 911. Emergency crews may need to secure the area before clean up begins.
3. Document the Damage
Take clear photos and videos from different angles. Capture any visible damage to structures, fences, vehicles, or the surrounding area. This helps with insurance claims and gives your clean up team context.
4. Do Not Attempt DIY Removal
Fallen trees under pressure can shift suddenly. Using chainsaws or ladders without training can be dangerous. For storm damage clean up, it’s best to leave the work to professionals who are trained to manage these hazards.
Why Use a Professional Storm Damage Clean Up Service
Certified crews provide more than just cutting and hauling. They:
- Assess structural and safety risks before starting work
- Use specialized equipment to control falling limbs
- Coordinate with utility companies when necessary
- Follow insurance-approved safety standards
Hiring professionals protects your property and can speed up insurance processing.
Common Storm Clean Up Scenarios
| Situation | Risk Level | Action Steps | When to Act |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tree on house or garage | High | Call 911, document, notify insurance | Immediately |
| Tree across road or power lines | Critical | Call 911, stay away | Immediately |
| Tree in yard, no structure hit | Moderate | Contact storm clean up crew, take photos | Within 48 hours |
| Cracked or leaning tree | Elevated | Book an arborist inspection | Within 72 hours |
What Makes Trees Fall During Storms
Even moderate storms can cause major damage. Trees that are diseased, poorly pruned, or growing in soft soil are more likely to fail. Often, damage is the result of years of stress, not just one storm. A certified arborist can identify these issues and recommend preventive steps before future weather events.
Insurance and Storm Damage Clean Up
If your property was damaged, contact your insurance provider after documenting the scene. Ask the following:
- Can clean up begin before the adjuster arrives?
- Do they require a licensed company for removal?
- Will they cover tree removal and stump grinding?
Quick communication avoids delays in the claims process.
When It’s Safe to Handle Clean Up Yourself
You may be able to handle minor clean up if:
- The tree is already cut into small pieces
- Nothing is touching a building or power line
- You have proper safety gear and experience
Avoid any situation involving:
- Suspended limbs
- Trees resting on structures
- Use of ladders or chainsaws without training
Don’t Ignore What’s Still Standing
Once fallen trees are removed, have a certified arborist inspect the remaining trees. They’ll look for:
- Root instability
- Branches hanging over roofs or driveways
- Cracks, decay, or structural weaknesses
Addressing these issues now can prevent the next emergency.
Request Professional Help
If you need storm damage clean up in Habersham County, our local crews are available for emergency response and scheduled service. We remove fallen trees, clear dangerous limbs, and help restore safety to your property.
Call McKay Tree Service to schedule a storm damage assessment or emergency clean up.
FAQs
Should I wait before calling my insurance provider?
No. Contact them as soon as it’s safe and you’ve taken photos.
Can I remove branches myself?
Only if they are small, detached, and not near structures or wires.
Is stump grinding necessary after clean up?
It depends on location and risk. Ask your service provider if it should be included.
Who handles trees near power lines?
Only certified professionals should work around power lines. They may coordinate with the utility company if needed.
Do I need permits for storm damage clean up?
In emergency situations, most municipalities allow immediate removal for safety reasons. For non-urgent work, check with local guidelines.
