Strong winds can leave trees with broken branches, damaged crowns or a sudden lean. Sometimes the damage is obvious. In other cases, a tree may still be standing but need professional inspection.
If you are concerned about a storm-damaged tree in Sevenoaks or elsewhere in Kent, keep people away from the affected area and seek advice from a qualified tree surgeon. Our tree surgery services in Sevenoaks and Kent include pruning, tree removal and tree safety inspections.
Get in touch with Treecraft today here.
What Should You Do if a Tree Is Damaged by a Storm?
Your first priority is keeping people away from potential danger. Avoid walking beneath damaged branches or approaching a tree that appears unstable.
Do not climb the tree, pull down hanging branches or attempt to cut a fallen tree yourself. Storm damage can leave timber under tension and branches supported in unpredictable ways.
If there is an immediate threat to life, call 999. If a tree has fallen onto electricity cables, stay well clear and contact the electricity network operator.
Once you are in a safe position, contact a tree professional. Photographs taken from a safe distance can help explain the situation, although they cannot replace an on-site assessment.
The RHS guide to weather damage explains how strong winds and other severe weather can affect trees and garden plants.
Signs That a Tree May Need Professional Inspection
Some changes are easier to spot after a storm than others. Reasons to seek advice include:
- Broken branches hanging within the crown.
- A tree that has developed a new or more pronounced lean.
- Fresh cracks or splits in the trunk or major branches.
- Movement or lifting of the ground around the base.
- Large fallen limbs or visible damage near buildings, paths or roads.
These signs do not tell you, on their own, whether the whole tree needs removing. A tree surgeon or arboricultural consultant can assess the damage and recommend an appropriate next step.
Tree Craft’s tree surveys and arboricultural consultancy services can help you understand your tree’s condition and plan suitable management work.
Does a Storm-Damaged Tree Always Need Removing?
No. Depending on the extent of the damage and the tree’s condition, it may be possible to retain it.
Work might involve removing broken branches, pruning damaged sections or carrying out a more detailed inspection. Where the remaining tree cannot reasonably be retained safely, removal may be recommended.
The decision also depends on the surroundings. A damaged tree beside a busy path or building presents different considerations from one in an area with little access.
The RHS guidance on removing trees and stumps recommends professional help for large tree removal and highlights the importance of assessing stability and safety when retaining dead trees.
When Might Emergency Tree Removal Be Needed?
Urgent professional help may be needed where a damaged tree or branch threatens people, buildings or access routes.
Explain the situation clearly when you contact a contractor. Mention whether the tree is still standing, whether branches are suspended and whether roads, structures or utilities are affected.
Ask about availability and the proposed approach. Avoid entering the affected area while waiting for advice.
What Affects the Cost of Storm-Damaged Tree Work?
There is no single price for dealing with a damaged tree. The quotation will depend on factors such as:
- The tree’s size and condition.
- The extent and location of the damage.
- Access for the team and equipment.
- Nearby buildings, roads or other obstacles.
- The amount of timber and debris to be removed.
A site assessment helps establish what work is required and how it can be carried out. Contact Tree Craft to discuss your tree surgery requirements and current availability.
Can Tree Inspections Help Before the Next Storm?
An inspection can identify defects and help you plan appropriate tree care. This may be particularly useful where trees stand close to buildings, parking areas or frequently used paths.
Tree care cannot guarantee that a tree will withstand every storm. However, professional advice can help you understand its condition and decide whether management work or monitoring is appropriate.
Tree Surgery and Tree Inspections in Sevenoaks and Kent
Based in Knockholt, near Sevenoaks, Tree Craft provides tree surgery and arboricultural consultancy for homeowners, businesses and landowners across Kent.
Our qualified team can assess tree condition and advise on pruning, damaged branches, tree removal and further inspections. You can learn more about Tree Craft and our team before getting in touch.
Concerned about a damaged tree? Call 01732 641492 or contact Tree Craft to discuss the situation and current availability.