10 Steps to Prevent Costly Storm Damage

High winds and snowstorms can leave a dangerous trail of downed trees, debris, and destruction. A proactive approach to tree management is a less costly and more effective way to lower your risk of personal and property damage.

Don't rely on luck to make it through this year's storm season. Here are some tips on how to prevent damage on your property before, during and after storm season:

1. Ask an ISA-certified arborist to provide you with an assessment of dangerous trees on your property before storm season.


2. Be sure to look for trees with structural hazards like broken, dead, or dying branches.


3. Pay special attention to mature, heavily leaning trees.


4. Identify safety issues around walkways, roadways, entrances, and electrical lines.


5. Look for potential risk factors, such as large trees, in areas predisposed to wet soil.


6. Brace newly-established trees so that strong cables keep them in place.


7. Obtain proof of insurance for higher-risk tree work from your tree company.


8. Get a written proposal with a detailed scope of work.


9. Consider your long-range plan with your goals and budget mapped out for three to five years.


10. Pre-arrange with a company that can respond 24/ 7 with the necessary manpower and equipment when an emergency does strike.

Look for potential risk factors, such as large trees, in areas predisposed to wet soil.