Get everyone out from under and behind the tree, keep clear of any downed power lines, call your insurer, then call a 24/7 crew. In Raleigh, storm removal on a home typically runs $1,500–$8,000+ depending on crane needs — insurance usually covers removal when the tree has damaged a structure.
A crew can be on the way in minutes.
PLACEHOLDER RENTER answers 24/7 during storm events — fully insured, ISA-certified, local to Raleigh.
Tap to call now (919) 555-0100The first 30 minutes
- Get people clear, then stay clear. A tree resting on a roof is still moving. Keep everyone out of the fall zone — that includes the far side of the trunk.
- Check for lines before anything else. If a limb is anywhere near downed power lines, treat it as live and call Duke Energy first. Never touch, and keep children and pets well back.
- If you smell gas, leave and call 911. Uprooted trees frequently pull service lines. Don't flip switches or light anything on the way out.
- Photograph before any work starts. Wide shots and close-ups of the damage, from the street if you can't approach safely. Your claim will move faster.
- Call your insurer to open a claim. Ask two questions: does the policy cover removal, and do they need approval before work begins.
- Then call the crew. A licensed, insured operator will stabilize the tree, tarp the roof if needed, and document everything for your claim.
What counts as an emergency
What emergency removal costs
Emergency work carries a premium over scheduled jobs — you're paying for an immediate response, not just the tree.
| Situation | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tree on roof — tarp & secure | $500–$1,200 | Stabilization to make the home weather-tight, often same day. |
| Tree on roof — full removal | $1,500–$5,000 | Size, roof pitch, and interior access drive the spread. |
| Crane-assisted removal | $3,500–$8,000+ | When the tree can't be climbed or rigged from below. |
| Driveway / roadway clearing | $400–$1,500 | Faster than structure work; no roof risk involved. |
After-hours and active-storm work typically adds a 25–50% premium to daytime scheduled rates.
Most homeowner policies cover tree removal when the tree has damaged a covered structure — a tree on the lawn is usually yours to pay for. Photograph everything before work starts, keep the crew's itemized invoice, and don't sign anything that assigns your insurance check to the crew before the work is done.
Common questions
How fast can a crew get here during a storm?
Local 24/7 crews triage by safety: trees on occupied homes and blocked exits go first. During a named storm, expect triage calls within hours and full removals scheduled once wind drops below safe working limits.
Should I let a crew that knocked on my door do the work?
Storm-chasing crews appear after every major event in Wake County. Verify insurance and a local address before signing anything — see our Licensing & Regulatory pillar for the checklist.
Will insurance pay for the whole tree?
Policies commonly cover removal of the portion on the structure, plus debris, but the details vary. Photograph everything, get the itemized invoice, and let the adjuster see the full scope before cleanup is hauled away.