Wondering Who to Call When a Tree Falls in the Road? Here’s Who to Contact

Regardless of whether anyone hears a tree when it falls, if it’s in the road, it becomes a serious hazard. So, who should you call when a tree falls in the road?

Fallen trees can cause major vehicle damage or even a traffic collision, so it’s crucial to deal with them as soon as possible. If you’re wondering who to call when a tree falls in the road, the answer varies for public versus private roads. 

Who to Call When a Tree Falls in the Road

If there’s a large tree blocking the road, it’s time to call a professional to move it. Here’s who to call to resolve the problem.

Public Roads

If the fallen tree is in the middle of a public road, your local emergency number (911) is the best entity to contact. Emergency responders may need to use the road and a blockage can have serious consequences, so a call to the emergency line is warranted. Your local electrical utility company is typically responsible if a tree falls on power lines, so you should also contact them if there are power lines involved. 

Private Roads

If the tree has fallen on a private road not owned by any government agency, the road’s owner (or collective owners) is responsible for removal. For example, if a large tree falls onto your driveway, you’re responsible for calling and hiring a professional to remove it. In that case, your next move is to hire a professional tree removal service near you.

When hiring a local tree removal service to move a fallen tree, be sure to specify the nature of the situation, such as whether it’s fully or partially blocking your home’s driveway. Most tree removal companies will prioritize emergency tree removals, but you may incur an additional charge.

Before Hiring a Tree Service Professional

If you need to hire a tree service pro to remove a tree from a private road, consider these factors before hiring a professional.

Plan Your Tree Removal Project for Accurate Quotes

Before you begin the hiring process, note the size of the tree and its specific location. If there is more than one fallen tree in the road, record the number and the approximate distance between them. If you can, get in touch with your neighbors to collectively determine the scope of work needed.

You should also take this opportunity to assess whether you may need (or want) to have additional trees cut down and removed while your tree removal service is on site. You can often save money by bundling your tree removal cost if multiple jobs are involved.

Check Your Tree Service Professional’s Qualifications and References

If you’re wondering whether tree removal services need a license, the answer is yes. While a professional removing a tree from the road technically isn’t cutting it down, you should look for an experienced company that offers this service. A license verifies the legitimacy of the tree removal service and that shows that they are skilled and well-versed in the safety protocols of handling large, heavy fallen trees.

Questions to Ask Your Tree Service Professional

Photo: nd700 / Adobe Stock

Here are a few key questions to consider asking potential tree service professionals:

• What is your experience in handling similar projects?

• Can you provide a detailed breakdown of the services included in your quote?

• Does your price include hauling the tree and debris removal?

• How do you ensure safety during the job?

• What equipment and techniques do you use for removing trees?

Hiring Your Tree Service Professional Tips

Use these tips and tricks when hiring a tree removal service for a fallen tree on a private road.

Interview Your Tree Service Professional

Even for a relatively quick process like tree removal, you still want to ensure you’re working with a friendly, transparent, and professional tree removal team. Cover key checkpoints in your interview, such as their number of years of experience, team size, licensing and credentials. You should also ask them how they plan to handle your tree removal job based on the specific details provided.

Ask for a Background Check 

Unfortunately, individuals with nefarious intent can impersonate any service provider. To help weed them out, be sure to ask for proof of licensure and a background check to ensure they have a clean record.

Look for Red Flags and Prepare to Troubleshoot

Often, going with the lowest bidder may end up costing you. If a tree service has minimal or no reviews online or they seem hesitant to answer questions about qualifications, insurance, and bonding, be wary of hiring them. Tree service companies with suspiciously low prices often have a catch, such as a lack of insurance and dodging similar overhead costs. Also, a pro who is demanding payment upfront or a substantial down payment is typically not the one you should hire.

If you’re hiring collectively with your neighbors, make sure everyone agrees on the service provider and discuss the appropriate “what if” scenarios. Some examples are: What if they don’t complete the job? What if there are hidden expenses? What if excessive debris is left behind? Preparing yourself for all scenarios will help the group feel more confident in handling the process.

After Your Tree Service Professional Has Finished

Once your service professional has finished, evaluate the scene and talk amongst your neighbors if necessary. For insurance claims, retain a copy of your final bill to file your claim. If you’re happy and satisfied with the service you receive, be sure to leave your tree service professional a favorable review to help others in a similar situation find them quickly.