Devon sits on the receiving end of Atlantic weather systems that have crossed hundreds of miles of open ocean. The south-west-facing coastline, the upland exposure of Dartmoor and Exmoor, and the wind-funnelling effect of the major river valleys mean that storm damage to trees is a regular occurrence — not an exceptional one. Here is what to do when it happens to you.
Immediate priority: safety
Get everyone away from the fallen or damaged tree and any area it could affect if it fails further. Do not attempt to move large timber yourself — even timber that looks static can shift unpredictably. Do not go under a tree that is partially fallen and leaning against another tree or structure. A hung-up tree can release without any warning.
Power lines
If the tree has come down on overhead power lines, stay well clear and call Western Power Distribution (now National Grid Electricity Distribution) immediately on their 24-hour emergency line: 0800 6783 105. Do not approach fallen power lines under any circumstances — treat them as live until the network operator tells you otherwise.
Call us — day or night
We operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week for storm emergencies across Devon and Cornwall. When you call, give us your location, a brief description of what has happened, and whether there are utilities involved or any immediate danger to people. We will advise you and get someone on the way.
Why Devon trees fail in storms
Devon’s coastal and upland exposure means trees here often grow in wind-stressed conditions. They lean, they have shallow root systems on thin soils over rock, and they carry significant sail area. The combination of saturated ground after prolonged winter rainfall — which reduces the anchorage provided by roots — and high winds from a westerly or south-westerly direction is the most common cause of whole-tree failure in Devon. Trees that have been badly pruned in the past, trees with structural defects, and trees under long-term stress from drought or disease are all at higher risk.
If you have trees that concern you — ones that are leaning noticeably, showing signs of disease or die-back, or that have significant deadwood in the crown — the time to have them assessed is before the next storm, not after.
Insurance
If storm damage has affected your property, your buildings insurance policy may cover tree removal and reinstatement costs. We can provide a detailed written report and breakdown of costs for insurance purposes. Check your policy before authorising work beyond the emergency make-safe, as insurers sometimes have specific requirements for reinstatement work.