For homeowners
A tree is leaning after a storm. What should I do?
Short answer
Stay away from it and keep people and pets out of the area under it. A tree that leans after a storm, especially with soil lifted at the base, may fall. Call a qualified, insured tree pro. Call 911 if it threatens a home or road, and the utility if wires are involved.
By Umair Nawaz. Published October 25, 2026. General information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
The longer answer
A sudden lean is a warning sign. Look from a safe distance for these signs: soil cracked or raised on one side, roots showing, a gap opening around the base, or a trunk split. Any of these can mean the root system has been damaged and the tree could go down.
Do not push, pull or cut the tree yourself. Trees under stress can move without warning. Do not park under it or let children play near it.
If a tree is on or leaning on a power line, stay far away and call the electric utility. Call 911 if there is immediate danger to people.
For non-urgent leans, get two or three written quotes from insured companies, and ask whether the tree can be saved with support or must come down. A tree that has leaned slowly for many years is different from one that tilted overnight, but only a pro on site can judge that.
Check your insurance policy and take photos before anything is moved. This is a short explanation, not insurance advice.
More answers for homeowners
- Are mushrooms growing at the base of my tree a bad sign?Read the answer
- Can a tree be removed if it is too close to my house?Read the answer
- Can a tree company remove a tree on the property line if only I agree?Read the answer
- Can a tree service cut down a tree without my permission?Read the answer
- Can a tree that lost branches in a storm be saved?Read the answer
- Can I cancel a tree service contract after signing?Read the answer
Hiring a tree service?
Plain guides for homeowners
Safety first: stay away from downed power lines and call the utility; call 911 if anyone is in danger. Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
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