Why should I be concerned about storm damage to my tree (aka why do I care)? Storms impact many or all portions of a tree. These impacts can result in damage to the tree's structure, making the chances high that the tree or a portion of the tree could fail. Trees add value to your property, and working quickly and knowledgably following a storm will ensure the health of your trees and investment. Trees on private property are the responsibility of the homeowner, making you responsible for the maintenance of the tree in a safe manner for yourself, your guests and other citizens that may come into contact with it.   When do I have the work done? Severe injury (50% or greater of the tree, damage that poses a risk) - Immediately. This includes hanging branches, broken trunks, root failure. Moderate injury (25-50% of the tree) - varies. Pruning is best done in the winter after leaf drop; however, if the tree is prone to disease problems, for example American elm, pruning at the earliest convenient time may limit disease risk. Staking and mulching are easy, inexpensive maintenance that can be done without delay. For erosion problems, remediation should take place as soon as is convenient. Minor injury (25% of the tree) - At a convenient time or continue to monitor until the injury becomes moderate in severity.   Who do I hire? See Do-It-Yourself vs. Hiring a Professional   Will my tree survive? There is no easy answer to this question. It depends on: * How healthy and structurally sound it was before the storm. * How quickly you identify the injury. * How quickly the problems are corrected. * If the tree receives appropriate care. In general, if more than 50% of the tree is damaged, it won't survive, be structurally sound and be healthy. As the level of damage increases, the chances of the tree surviving decrease. See Will It Survive and Thrive.   I don't see any damage on my tree, so it's safe, right? Not necessarily. This website provides basic information on evaluating and remediating damage. Some damage may not be visible immediately, and some damage requires a qualified professional to identify it. Even a tree that does not seem to be damaged should be monitored closely for the first 2-3 years following the storm.   What is remediation? Remediation is any process through which you try to repair damage to the tree and/or return the tree to its former condition and health. This includes pruning, staking, mulching, watering, erosion control, etc. Last Updated: