First, stay safe
- Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them, including trees, fences and standing water. Report them to FPL at 1-800-468-8243 or call 911.
- Don't climb or cut hanging limbs yourself. Storm-damaged wood is under tension and can spring or drop without warning.
- If a tree went through the roof, get everyone out of that part of the house until it has been checked.
Document everything for insurance
Before any work starts, take photos and video of the tree, the damage, and where it landed. Keep every receipt for emergency work. Insurance usually helps when a tree falls on a covered structure such as your house, garage or fence. It often doesn't cover a tree that fell in the yard without hitting anything, and removal coverage is often capped. Call your insurer early and ask what they need.
What a tree company can do
- Remove trees and limbs from the roof, pool cage, cars and driveway
- Take down hanging or split limbs before they fall
- Cut up and haul away fallen trees and debris
- Help tarp the roof once the tree is off, or point you to someone who does
- Assess leaning trees that survived the storm but may not be safe
Watch out for storm chasers
After big storms, crews from out of the area go door to door. Some are fine, others take deposits and disappear. Protect yourself:
- Ask for proof of insurance, and check the company's name and reviews.
- Get a written quote before work starts.
- Don't pay in full up front, and don't sign over your insurance claim to the contractor.
- Price gouging is illegal in Florida during a declared state of emergency. You can report it to the Florida Attorney General.
Curbside storm debris
After major storms the City of Ormond Beach usually announces curbside debris pickup. Follow the city's instructions for how to pile debris, and keep tree branches separate from building materials so the pile gets picked up.
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Storm cleanup questions
Who pays if my neighbor's tree falls on my house?
In Florida your own homeowners insurance usually covers damage to your property, no matter whose tree it was. The exception is when the neighbor knew the tree was dead or dangerous and didn't deal with it. Ask your insurer.
How fast can someone come after a storm?
It depends on how widespread the damage is. After a big hurricane, companies are booked solid and prioritize trees on houses and blocking access. Call or text as early as you can and say if it's urgent.
Should I have trees checked before hurricane season?
Yes. Dead trees, dead limbs and branches over the roof are the most likely to cause damage. Late winter and spring are good times for trimming before the season starts on June 1.