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Storm and roof safety

What to do when a tree falls on your property

Fallen trees and hanging branches can shift without warning, and may be tangled with power lines. Removal is high-risk work for trained arborists.

By Fixit247 Editorial TeamReviewed 28 September 20264 min read

Safety classification

Stop and contact a licensed professional

This guide covers safe first actions only. It is not a licence to perform regulated work or enter a dangerous area.

What to do

  1. 1

    Keep everyone clear

    Keep people and pets well away from the tree, hanging limbs and anything they rest on.

  2. 2

    Check for power lines

    If a tree touches power lines, stay at least 8 metres away and call 000 and your electricity distributor.

  3. 3

    Call for emergency help if the house is damaged

    Call the SES on 132 500 for trees on homes, or 000 if anyone is trapped or injured.

  4. 4

    Photograph the damage

    Record the tree, the damage and any structures affected from a safe distance.

  5. 5

    Arrange an arborist

    An arborist can make the site safe, remove the tree and advise on council requirements and stump removal.

When to stop

  • The tree is on power lines
  • The tree is on an occupied building
  • Branches are hanging or the trunk is split
  • You would need a chainsaw or ladder to reach it
Which trade do I need?

Tree and arborist services

Prepare the problem, safety status and location once. The matching category and service will be pre-filled.

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Editorial boundary

Fixit247 does not publish instructions for unlicensed electrical, gas, asbestos, structural, high-roof, dangerous tree or live-road work.

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