Quick Summary
Keep clear of unstable timber, explain the hazard by telephone and agree the immediate work separately from later clearance.
Keep people away from a tree that has fallen, split or left branches hanging. A root plate can move, and timber caught against a structure can remain under tension. Do not cut or pull it to reopen a path.
For Horsham, Midhurst or elsewhere in Sussex and Surrey, explain the location and hazard when calling for help. The emergency tree service has contact details.
Information to give on the call
Give the address and a usable access point. Say whether the tree is on a building, vehicle, road or entrance, and whether anyone is at immediate risk. Mention cables and anything supporting the damaged timber. Photographs help only if they can be taken without entering the affected area.
The crew's attendance needs confirming. An emergency service description is not a guaranteed arrival time, particularly during widespread storm damage.
What happens before cutting
The crew assesses the damaged tree, its supports and the area around it, then plans access and a clear working zone. The method depends on the scene. A tree resting on a roof cannot be treated like loose branches on open ground.
Agree the scope and price
Ask what the initial work will achieve. Removing a hanging limb or reducing an immediate hazard may leave further dismantling and clearance for another visit. The price depends on the damage, access, equipment and amount of timber involved; photographs may not establish all of those details.
Keep the quote and any changes in writing. Ask whether removal of cuttings, logs, stump grinding and further inspections are included. For an insurance claim, check your policy and the insurer's requirements rather than assuming all tree work is covered.
After the immediate work
Agree what remains and whether the area can be used. Note any recommended assessment of neighbouring trees or damaged structures. The Horsham emergency page and cost guide explain how to discuss the next stage with Brad.
Emergency Work Starts With Making The Site Safe
Keep people clear of unstable timber. Call with the location and damage, and confirm availability and the initial scope.
When To Pick Up The Phone
- When a fallen or split tree is blocking access or threatening property
- When storm damage has left timber hanging or unstable
- When the site needs making safe before full clear-up can happen
Services and advice
Need Advice On A Tree?
Practical help for Sussex and Surrey properties
If you are trying to work out whether a tree needs pruning, reduction, removal, or just sensible advice, Capel can look at the site and tell you what makes sense.
These guides explain general tree-care decisions. They cannot establish the condition or legal status of an individual tree. Read our editorial policy for our approach to sources and corrections.