East Texas gets its share of severe weather — spring thunderstorms, the remnants of Gulf tropical systems, and the occasional ice event that puts real weight on tree limbs that normally handle wind just fine. When a tree problem shows up after a storm, the hardest part is often just deciding: does this need a call right now, or can it wait?
A tree or large limb is resting on your house, garage, or car. A tree is blocking your only way in or out of your driveway. A tree is visibly leaning or has uprooted and could fall further. Any of these, especially if a power line is anywhere nearby, is worth a call as soon as it's safe to make one.
First, get everyone away from the area — especially if there's any chance of a downed power line nearby. If a line is involved, call the power company before anyone approaches. Once it's safe, take a few photos for insurance purposes if you plan to file a claim, then call us. We'll ask a few quick questions about the situation and give you an honest timeline, not a vague "we'll try to get to it."
A broken limb sitting harmlessly in the yard, minor storm debris, or a tree that lost some branches but is otherwise stable and away from structures — these are still worth addressing, but they don't need an emergency call. Routine trimming and cleanup can usually be scheduled within the week.
Once the immediate hazard is handled, it's worth having a broader look at any large trees near your house. Storms have a way of revealing weak limbs and root systems that were fine under normal conditions but are now compromised. A quick trim now is a lot cheaper than an emergency call after the next storm.