Storm & emergency work
Emergency tree service after a storm
If a tree or limb has come down on your home, car or driveway, here's what to do first, and how to get a crew out.
Safety first
- Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them, including the tree, fences and puddles. Call 911 and CPS Energy.
- If the tree hit the house, get everyone out of the affected rooms. Watch for gas smells, and call 911 if anyone is hurt or the structure looks unsafe.
- Don't climb or cut a tree that's under tension or resting on a structure. Trapped limbs can spring back with enormous force.
Document it for insurance
- Take photos and video of the tree, the damage and the surrounding area before anything is moved.
- Call your insurance company or agent to open a claim, and ask what they'll cover for tree removal.
- Keep receipts for emergency work like tarping, temporary repairs or removal.
Policies often help pay to remove a tree that damaged a covered structure. Debris removal limits vary, so ask.
Getting a crew out
Use the form and choose Storm or emergency tree work. Mention what was hit and whether anything is blocked, like a driveway, the roof or a power line, so the request is flagged as urgent.
After big storms, out-of-town crews often go door to door. Ask for proof of insurance, a written price, and a local phone number, and don't pay in full before the work is done.
Want a price for your tree? It's free to ask.
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