Storm-prep tree checklist

What this checklist is

Our storm-prep tree checklist is a free downloadable PDF you can use to inspect the trees around your home in a simple, organized way before high wind, heavy rain, ice, or snow.

It is meant to help you notice common warning signs, write down what you see, and decide when to call a licensed and insured tree company. For assessment questions, it is smart to prefer an ISA-certified arborist.

This checklist does not replace a professional inspection. It does not tell you a tree is safe or unsafe. It helps you gather useful information so you can ask better questions and compare written estimates.

If you already see cracking, splitting, sudden leaning, or other danger signs, read hazard signs to watch for and get professional help.

What to look for as you walk your property

Use the checklist one tree at a time. Go slow. Stay on the ground. Never climb a tree or use a ladder for this.

Look for issues like:
- Dead, broken, or hanging branches
- Limbs rubbing each other
- Cracks in major limbs or the trunk
- A tree that has started leaning more than before
- Soil lifting, heaving, or new root exposure near the base
- Cavities, decay, mushrooms, or missing bark
- Branches touching or hanging over the roof, driveway, fence, or play area
- Trees growing near service drops or power lines

Power-line safety comes first. If a tree is down, leaning, or tangled on or near a power line, stay back, keep others away, and call the utility company and 911 first. Do not touch the tree. Do not try to cut limbs near lines.

If your goal is prevention, you can also review storm damage tree safety before bad weather arrives.

How to use the checklist well

A checklist works best when you pair it with simple notes and photos.

1. Walk the front yard, back yard, side yard, and any area near parking, fences, and utility lines.
2. Take clear photos from a safe distance. Get the whole tree and any close-up problem areas you can capture from the ground.
3. Write down the tree location, what you noticed, and when you noticed it.
4. Mark anything urgent, especially trees near the house, driveway, sidewalks, or where people spend time.
5. If something looks risky, contact a licensed and insured tree company and ask for the scope and price in writing.

When you compare companies, verify the license and insurance yourself, including liability and workers' compensation. Never pay the full amount up front. After storms, be extra careful with door-knockers who push for fast cash jobs.

If you want help finding companies to contact, you can get matched for free. You compare estimates, you choose who to hire, and you control the final payment.

When to schedule tree work before storm season

The best time to plan is before your area has active storm warnings. Preventive work is often easier to schedule than emergency work.

Typical homeowner jobs may include:
- Trimming or pruning to remove deadwood or reduce overextended limbs
- Tree removal when a tree is dead, failing, or in a hazardous location
- Stump grinding after a prior removal if the stump creates a mowing or trip problem

Typical price ranges are estimates, not quotes. Tree removal often runs about $400-$2,000+, with large or complex jobs costing more. Trimming/pruning is often $250-$1,200. Emergency storm cleanup can run $500-$5,000+. Real price depends on the tree's size and species, its location and access, hazards, debris haul-away, and your area.

Also remember that some cities and towns have permit rules for protected or heritage trees. Ask the company what local rules may apply, but confirm local requirements yourself.

How to download and use it with estimates

Download the checklist, print it or save it to your phone, and use it as a yard-by-yard planning sheet.

Bring your notes when you speak with tree companies. A short list helps:
- Which tree you are asking about
- What you observed
- How close it is to the home, roof, driveway, cars, or utility lines
- Whether access is tight for crews or equipment
- Whether you want haul-away included

That makes it easier to get apples-to-apples written estimates. If you are not sure what services you may need, review typical tree work costs so the numbers make more sense before you sign anything.