After the Storm: How to Handle Fallen Trees Safely and Quickly

Storms in Cedar Rapids and Iowa City can arrive with little warning—bringing pounding rain, high winds, and heavy snow or ice that leave broken branches and toppled trees in their wake. Once the skies clear, homeowners are often left with the daunting task of assessing the damage.

If you’ve ever walked outside after a storm and found a massive tree across your yard, you know the mix of stress and uncertainty that follows. What should you do first? Who should you call? Is it safe to handle on your own?

At Frank’s Tree Service, we’ve spent more than 20 years helping Eastern Iowa homeowners recover safely from severe weather. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to do after a storm, how to handle fallen trees safely and quickly, and why calling professionals can save time, money, and unnecessary risk.

1. The Hidden Dangers of Fallen Trees

Fallen trees can appear harmless once the storm has passed, but they often hide serious hazards.

Potential Dangers Include:

• Downed power lines: Electricity may still be active, creating life-threatening shock hazards.
• Unstable roots or limbs: Even partially fallen trees can shift or collapse without warning.
• Structural damage: Trees that hit roofs, fences, or vehicles can compromise safety and stability.
• Debris hazards: Splintered wood, glass, or metal can cause injuries during cleanup.

According to the National Storm Damage Center, falling trees cause more than $1 billion in property damage each year in the U.S.—often due to improper handling after the storm.

The safest first step is to stay back, survey the situation from a distance, and call an expert for assessment.

2. Step One: Check for Safety First

Before attempting any cleanup, make safety your top priority.

Do This Immediately:

1. Look for power lines. If a tree or branch is touching or even near electrical wires, keep everyone away and call your utility provider.
2. Inspect from a distance. Don’t climb or walk under a damaged tree. The trunk or limbs could give way unexpectedly.
3. Shut off power if necessary. If a tree has struck your home, cut electricity at the breaker box only if it’s safe to do so.
4. Keep children and pets away. Secure the area until professionals arrive.

Even small trees can weigh thousands of pounds—never assume you can move them safely without proper equipment.

3. Step Two: Assess the Damage

Once you’ve confirmed everyone’s safety, it’s time to evaluate the extent of the damage.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Has the tree fallen completely or partially?
• Is it blocking driveways, sidewalks, or public roads?
• Did it strike your home, vehicle, or other property?
• Are neighboring trees leaning or damaged?

Take clear photos and notes for insurance documentation. Avoid moving debris until you’ve spoken with your insurance adjuster or a professional tree service, as evidence may be needed for your claim.

4. Step Three: Contact a Professional Tree Service

If the fallen tree is large, entangled with power lines, or resting on a structure, do not attempt removal yourself.

Call a professional like Frank’s Tree Service at (319) 366-4747 for prompt, safe, and insured assistance. Our experienced crews are equipped with heavy-duty cranes, chainsaws, and safety gear to handle even the most complex storm damage situations.

What We Offer:

• 24/7 emergency response for storm-damaged trees
• Safe removal of trees near homes and power lines
• Stump grinding and full debris cleanup
• Licensed and insured professionals with 20 years of local experience

Fast response times are critical after a storm. The sooner a professional assesses the damage, the sooner you can secure your property and prevent further issues such as roof leaks or structural weakening.

5. Why You Should Never Attempt DIY Tree Removal

It may be tempting to grab a chainsaw and start cutting, especially when cleanup looks urgent—but DIY removal is one of the most dangerous post-storm activities.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make:

• Cutting from the wrong angle, causing kickback or roll-over injuries
• Misjudging tension in branches, leading to unpredictable snapping
• Standing on unstable surfaces or ladders
• Failing to recognize compromised root systems

Even small errors can lead to serious injury or extensive property damage. Trained crews like ours understand tree physics, use controlled rigging, and maintain the insurance coverage that protects both your property and your peace of mind.

6. Step Four: Secure Your Property

Once professionals have removed the immediate hazards, focus on preventing secondary issues.

Tips for Property Protection:

• Cover roof damage with tarps to prevent water intrusion.
• Board up broken windows or damaged siding.
• Remove smaller debris safely once the area is declared stable.
• Inspect fences, sheds, and outdoor structures for hidden damage.

If water or pests can enter your home through storm damage, address those issues quickly. Many insurance companies will reimburse temporary repairs made to prevent further loss.

7. Step Five: File Insurance Claims Promptly

Storm damage often qualifies for homeowner’s insurance coverage, but policies can vary.

Steps for a Smooth Claim Process:

1. Document everything with photos and videos before cleanup.
2. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or professional services.
3. Contact your insurer immediately to report the claim.
4. Get a written estimate from your tree service for submission.

Frank’s Tree Service frequently works with local insurance carriers and can provide detailed documentation to support your claim.

8. Preventing Future Storm Damage

While no one can control Iowa weather, regular maintenance dramatically reduces the risk of fallen trees and costly damage.

Preventive Steps Include:

• Annual tree inspections to identify weak or diseased limbs.
• Seasonal pruning to balance weight and improve structure.
• Removing dead or leaning trees before storm season.
• Keeping canopies clear from power lines, roofs, and driveways.

These proactive steps not only protect your home but also extend the life of your trees.

9. Did You Know? (Statistic)

According to the U.S. Forest Service, properly pruned and maintained trees are up to 70% less likely to fail during severe weather compared to neglected ones. That’s why regular inspections and trimming from professionals like Frank’s Tree Service are key to storm preparedness.

10. Testimonial from a Local Homeowner

“After last summer’s windstorm, we woke up to find a massive oak tree across our backyard fence. It looked impossible to move, but Frank’s Tree Service was at our house within hours. Their crew was professional, quick, and careful—they removed the tree without damaging anything else and even cleaned up every branch. I’ll never call anyone else for storm cleanup!”
— Jason T., Cedar Rapids, IA

11. How Frank’s Tree Service Handles Storm Damage

When you call Frank’s Tree Service, you’re choosing a local team that knows how to act fast and safely. Our process ensures efficiency and professionalism every step of the way.

Our Storm Response Process:

1. Rapid Assessment – We inspect the site for hazards such as live wires, unstable limbs, or structural damage.
2. Safety Setup – Barriers and warning zones are established to protect nearby structures and people.
3. Strategic Removal – We use cranes, ropes, and precision cutting to remove trees section by section without causing additional damage.
4. Cleanup & Disposal – All debris is cleared, stumps ground down, and the area restored.
5. Follow-Up Inspection – We review nearby trees for hidden cracks or instability that could cause problems later.

Our crews are available year-round to assist homeowners throughout Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, Marion, and nearby towns whenever severe weather strikes.

12. What To Do If a Tree Falls on Your Home

If a tree or large branch falls directly on your house, take these steps immediately:

1. Evacuate the affected area. Don’t attempt to stay in rooms beneath the damaged section.
2. Call emergency services if power lines or structural damage pose a danger.
3. Notify your insurance provider right away.
4. Contact Frank’s Tree Service for emergency removal to prevent further damage.

Our team has handled countless emergency removals safely and efficiently, ensuring families can return to their homes faster and without additional stress.

13. Partnering with a Trusted Local Company Matters

When disaster strikes, you want a company that’s close, responsive, and experienced. Out-of-state contractors often flood storm-damaged areas but may lack proper licensing or insurance.

Why Eastern Iowa Homeowners Choose Frank’s Tree Service:

• Locally owned and operated for more than 20 years
• Fully licensed and insured for your protection
• Certified experts trained in storm damage mitigation
• Transparent pricing and detailed written estimates
• Commitment to safety and community trust

We live and work in the same neighborhoods we serve, so you can count on honest advice and dependable service.

14. Recovery Tips After Cleanup

Once the fallen tree is gone, take time to restore your property and strengthen it for the future.

Post-Storm Recovery Tips:

• Reseed grass or repair soil where roots were uprooted.
• Schedule follow-up pruning for other trees that may have minor damage.
• Replace lost trees with species that are wind-resistant, such as oak or hickory.
• Plan annual inspections before spring and fall storm seasons.

With consistent care, your yard will recover quickly and be better prepared next time.

15. The Value of Experience and Preparedness

Storm recovery is not just about removing fallen trees—it’s about restoring safety, order, and peace of mind. When handled correctly, cleanup doesn’t have to be chaotic or stressful.

Frank’s Tree Service brings decades of local expertise to every project. From emergency response to long-term maintenance, we take pride in protecting homes and families across Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and the surrounding communities.

Stay Safe, Act Fast, and Trust the Experts

When severe weather strikes, fallen trees are more than an inconvenience—they’re a threat to your safety and property. Acting quickly and calling trained professionals ensures the job gets done right the first time.

If your property has suffered from fallen trees or branches, don’t take risks with DIY cleanup. Let Frank’s Tree Service handle it safely, efficiently, and completely.

Call (319) 366-4747 today for emergency storm response or professional inspection anywhere in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, or surrounding Eastern Iowa communities.

Frank’s Tree Service — Locally Owned. Fully Insured. Dedicated to Keeping Eastern Iowa Homes Safe for Over 20 Years.