Emergency & Storm Tree Service on the North Shore
Nor'easters, thunderstorms, and heavy wet snow bring down trees and limbs across the North Shore. When one lands on a house, car, fence, or driveway, you need it removed safely. We connect you with independent local tree services that handle storm work.
Why tree problems matter
Most trees are an asset, and no tree is completely risk-free. A few warning signs, though, are worth having a qualified arborist look at before the next storm.
Storms bring down weak trees and limbs
Strong winds and soaking rain soften soil and can overturn trees, and ice storms create hazards of their own. When a mature tree or a large part of it fails, it can damage homes, cars, fences, and utility lines.(ISA TreesAreGood: Recognizing Tree Risk)
Dead and hanging limbs are a common hazard
Large dead branches, detached or hanging limbs, cracks or splits in the trunk, cavities, rot, and mushrooms at the base are signs of possible defects. Evaluating how serious they are is best done by a professional arborist.(ISA TreesAreGood: Recognizing Tree Risk)
Emerald ash borer is killing ash trees here
This invasive beetle is devastating ash trees in Massachusetts and has been confirmed in Essex and Middlesex counties. Its larvae feed under the bark and can kill a tree, and the USDA Forest Service notes that removing declining ash is an ongoing public safety risk and cost for communities and landowners.(Mass.gov: Emerald Ash Borer in Massachusetts, USDA APHIS: Emerald Ash Borer, USDA Forest Service: Massachusetts Forest Health Highlights 2025)
Storm cleanup is dangerous work
Trees and limbs under tension can move unexpectedly when cut, and damaged trees may be touching power lines. Stay away from downed lines, call the utility, and leave climbing and chainsaw work to trained crews.(ISA TreesAreGood: Storm-Related Tree Damage, ISA TreesAreGood: Recognizing Tree Risk)
Signs you may need help
- A tree or large limb on the house, garage, or car
- A tree blocking the driveway
- A split trunk or hanging limb after a storm
- A tree uprooted or leaning sharply after wind or snow
What the work typically involves
- Stay safe. Keep everyone away from the tree and any wires. If wires are involved, call the electric utility or 911 and wait for the lines to be made safe.
- Remove the load. The crew removes the tree from the structure carefully, often with a crane or in small sections, to avoid more damage.
- Secure the property. Once the tree is off, a roofer or contractor can tarp or board up the damage.
- Document. Take photos before and after, and ask for a written invoice for your insurance claim.
Every job is different. The pro you speak with will explain their own approach and pricing. Storm Tree North Shore does not perform, supervise, or guarantee any work.
Further reading: M.G.L. c.87 §3: public shade trees and the tree warden · M.G.L. c.40 §15C: scenic roads · Mass.gov: Emerald ash borer in Massachusetts · Mass.gov: Municipally owned electric companies
Frequently asked questions
A tree fell on my house. What do I do first?
Get everyone out of the affected part of the house. Stay away from downed wires and call the utility or 911 if lines are involved. Then call your insurer and a tree professional.
Who removes a town tree that fell on my property?
Contact your town's tree warden or public works department. Trees on the public way are generally the town's responsibility.
Someone knocked on my door after the storm offering to cut my tree. Is that normal?
Be careful with door-to-door storm offers. Ask for proof of insurance and a written price, and do not pay a large amount up front.
How do I know if a tree on my property is dangerous?
The International Society of Arboriculture suggests looking for large dead branches, hanging or detached limbs, cracks or splits in the trunk or branch unions, cavities or rotten wood, mushrooms at the base, and recent root disturbance from construction. If you see any of these, have the tree evaluated by a qualified arborist.
Is emerald ash borer in my area?
Very likely. Mass.gov reports emerald ash borer has been detected in Essex and Middlesex counties, among others, and the whole state is part of the federal quarantine zone. If you have ash trees, an arborist can help you decide whether treatment or removal makes sense.
Should I cut up a storm-damaged tree myself?
It is safer not to. Limbs under tension can spring back when cut, and damaged trees can be in contact with power lines. Never go near downed lines, call your utility, and have trained tree workers handle the cleanup.