Emergency & storm tree removal in Kent

What to do right after a tree falls

1. Get everyone safe. If a tree has hit the house and you hear cracking, see the ceiling sagging, or smell gas, get out and call 911.
2. Keep clear of the tree. Trees and limbs under tension can spring or roll when cut or when they settle. Don't try to cut it yourself, especially with a chainsaw on a ladder or roof.
3. Take photos from several angles before anything is moved. Your insurer will want them.
4. Call your homeowner's insurance to start a claim and ask what they cover for tree removal and roof tarping.
5. Request tree help. Call or send the quote form with photos. Mention if the tree is on a structure, blocking the only exit, or hanging and still moving.

Why Kent sees so much storm damage

The Puget Sound lowlands get their strongest winds in fall and winter, usually from the south and southwest, often after weeks of rain have soaked the soil. Tall, shallow-rooted conifers with full winter crowns catch a lot of wind, and saturated ground lets the whole root plate lift. The November 2024 "bomb cyclone" was a reminder: it brought down trees and power lines across King County, and many homeowners waited days for help.

Snow and ice cause the other half of the trouble. Heavy wet snow loads up evergreen limbs and the broad crowns of big-leaf maples, and limbs that look fine in summer can fail under the weight.

Before the next storm

• Walk your yard in early fall. Look for new leans, cracked soil around the base, dead tops, hanging broken limbs ("widowmakers") and fungus.
• Pay attention to trees that were recently exposed to wind because neighboring trees were cleared for construction.
• Have large trees near the house looked at by a qualified pro or certified arborist, and prune or remove high-risk ones in the drier months, when crews are less backed up.