Emergency Tree Removal Sydney: What to Do When a Tree Falls

What to Do When a Tree Falls on Your Property

A fallen tree is a stressful situation that requires immediate action. Whether caused by storm damage, disease, or structural failure, knowing what to do can prevent further damage and injury. Here's your step-by-step guide.

1. Ensure Everyone's Safety First

• Evacuate the area: Keep all family members and pets away from the fallen tree
• Watch for power lines: If the tree has contacted power lines, stay at least 10 metres away and call Ausgrid (13 13 88) immediately
• Check for injuries: If anyone is hurt, call 000 immediately
• Don't attempt DIY removal: Fallen trees are unpredictable and can shift unexpectedly

2. Assess the Situation

From a safe distance, evaluate:

• Has the tree damaged your home, car, or other structures?
• Is the tree blocking access to your property?
• Are there other trees or branches that might fall?
• Is the situation worsening (continuing to crack or shift)?

3. Document the Damage

Before any cleanup begins, document everything for insurance:

• Take photos and videos from multiple angles
• Capture damage to property, vehicles, and landscaping
• Note the date and time of the incident
• Record weather conditions if storm-related

4. Call for Professional Help

Contact an emergency tree removal service as soon as it's safe to do so. Professional arborists have the equipment, training, and insurance to safely remove fallen trees.

Emergency Tree Removal Costs in Sydney

Emergency tree services typically cost 30-50% more than standard tree removal due to urgency, after-hours work, and hazardous conditions.

Types of Tree Emergencies

Fallen Trees

Complete tree failure where the entire tree has uprooted or broken at the base. These require immediate removal, especially when blocking access or threatening structures.

Hanging Branches (Widow Makers)

Broken branches caught in the canopy that can fall at any time. These are extremely dangerous and should be treated as emergencies despite appearing stable.

Leaning Trees

Trees that have suddenly begun leaning, often due to root failure or soil saturation. These may fall at any time and require urgent assessment.

Storm Damage

Multiple trees and branches affected by severe weather. After major storms, demand for tree services spikes significantly, so early calls get faster response.

Trees on Structures

Trees resting on houses, garages, fences, or vehicles. These require careful removal to prevent additional structural damage.

Will Insurance Cover Emergency Tree Removal?

Most Australian home insurance policies cover emergency tree removal in certain circumstances:

Generally Covered

• Tree removal when the tree has damaged insured structures (house, garage, fence)
• Removal of trees blocking essential access to the property
• Storm damage where the tree was healthy before the event

Often Not Covered

• Removal of fallen trees that haven't damaged anything
• Trees that fell due to pre-existing disease or neglect
• Removal of trees on vacant land or away from structures
• Stump grinding (often considered a separate expense)

Tips for Insurance Claims

• Contact your insurer before arranging non-urgent removal
• Keep all receipts and documentation
• Request itemised invoices from your tree service
• Take extensive photos before any work begins

What to Expect from Emergency Tree Services

Initial Response

When you call a professional emergency tree service:

• Describe the situation and any immediate dangers
• Provide your address and access details
• Mention if power lines are involved
• Ask for an estimated arrival time

On-Site Assessment

The arborist will:

• Evaluate safety risks and develop a removal plan
• Provide a verbal or written quote before starting
• Explain the process and expected timeframe
• Identify any complications (power lines, structural concerns)

Removal Process

Emergency removal typically involves:

• Securing the area and establishing exclusion zones
• Systematically dismantling the tree in sections
• Removing debris from structures carefully
• Basic cleanup and debris removal

After the Emergency

Once immediate hazards are cleared:

• Arrange stump grinding if needed (often done later)
• Assess other trees for potential issues
• Complete insurance documentation
• Consider preventive tree pruning on remaining trees

Preventing Tree Emergencies

While not all tree failures can be prevented, regular maintenance significantly reduces risk:

• Annual inspections: Have an arborist assess your trees regularly
• Regular pruning: Remove dead branches before they become hazards
• Storm preparation: Address weak trees before storm season
• Watch for warning signs: Leaning, cracks, fungal growth, or dead branches

Frequently Asked Questions

How quickly can you respond to tree emergencies?

Response times vary based on demand and location. During normal conditions, most professional services respond within 2-4 hours. After major storms, delays are common due to high demand.

Do I need council approval for emergency tree removal?

Emergency removal of genuinely hazardous trees is generally permitted without prior approval. However, you may need to notify the council afterwards and provide documentation.

What if the fallen tree is from my neighbour's property?

If a neighbour's tree falls onto your property, you're typically responsible for removal costs on your land. Your insurance may cover damage, and you may have a claim against your neighbour if the tree was obviously hazardous and they failed to maintain it.

Can you remove a tree at night?

Yes, emergency services operate 24/7. However, night work is more complex and expensive. Unless there's immediate danger, it's often more cost-effective to secure the area and wait until morning.

Related Guides

Prepare for and prevent tree emergencies with our expert guides:

• Dangerous Tree Warning Signs – Spot hazards before they become emergencies
• Tree Removal Cost Sydney 2026 – Understand pricing for planned removals

We provide 24/7 emergency tree services across all Sydney regions including the North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, and Sutherland Shire.