Storm damage and tree failures
Emergency Tree Removal in Brentwood, CA
Safety steps for the first hour after a tree or limb comes down, what to photograph, and how to ask for help. This is an information and referral site, not an emergency dispatcher.
If anyone is in danger, call 911. If a tree or branch is touching a power line, stay away, call 911 and then PG&E (PG&E). Don't touch the tree or anything it is touching.
What to expect from us: we pass requests to independent tree service companies. Calls to our number go to a voicemail, and we cannot promise a response time or a crew. Use this page for safety steps and to send a request, not as a dispatch line.
Do these first
- Get everyone away from the tree, the damaged area and anything it touches.
- Check for power lines, gas smell and water. Call 911 for lines or injuries.
- If the tree is on the house, leave if the structure looks unsafe.
- Take photos and video of the tree, the damage and the surroundings before anything is moved.
- Call your insurance company to ask about coverage and what they need.
Temporary protection
If the roof is open, a tarp can limit water damage, but do not climb a roof or work under a tree under tension. Many companies handle emergency tarping; ask when you request a quote.
How emergency tree work is priced
HomeGuide says same-day or next-day removal typically costs two to three times the standard rate (HomeGuide). Angi says emergency removal usually comes at a premium and can reach about $5,000 in urgent situations (Angi). The company sets the price after assessing hazards, access and equipment.
What to avoid
- Door-to-door crews who show up after storms and ask for a large deposit or cash.
- Anyone proposing to work near a power line without the utility involved.
- Agreeing to a price with no written scope.
- Moving the tree before you have photos.
Emergency tree questions
Do you dispatch crews for emergencies?
No. We are an independent referral website, not a dispatcher. Calls to our number go to a voicemail and requests are passed to independent companies, and we can't promise a response time. If anyone is in danger, call 911.
How much does emergency tree removal cost?
HomeGuide says same-day or next-day removal typically costs two to three times the standard rate, and Angi says emergency removal usually comes at a premium, with costs that can reach about $5,000 in urgent situations. The company sets the price after assessing the job.
Will insurance cover a fallen tree?
It depends on your policy and what the tree hit. Photograph the damage before anything is moved, keep receipts and call your insurer. We don't give insurance advice.
A tree is on a power line. What do I do?
Stay away, call 911 and then the utility. PG&E says to stay away from a tree or branch touching a line and not to try to remove it yourself.
East Contra Costa communities
Requests come from homeowners across the eastern end of Contra Costa County, along Highway 4 and the Delta.
Send an emergency tree request
Leave your details and what happened. We pass it to an independent tree service company. We are not a dispatcher and can't promise a response time; if anyone is in danger, call 911.
- Takes about a minute
- No obligation to hire
- Ask for a written, itemized quote