Hurricane Tree Preparation Guide for Virginia Beach Homeowners

Protecting Your Home: Tree Prep Before Hurricane Season

Virginia Beach sits directly in the path of Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30. The most dangerous source of property damage in a hurricane is not wind directly — it's trees and branches becoming projectiles or falling on structures. Smart preparation can dramatically reduce your risk.

Start in May: Pre-Season Checklist

• →Have an ISA certified arborist inspect all large trees within striking distance of your home
• →Remove all dead branches — deadwood falls first in high winds
• →Thin dense canopies to reduce wind resistance
• →Check for co-dominant stems or included bark — these are weak points that fail under stress
• →Cable or brace any structurally compromised trees worth saving
• →Remove trees that are already leaning toward structures

What to Avoid Before a Storm

Do not top your trees. Topping — cutting branches to stubs — is done by unqualified companies who claim it makes trees safer. It actually does the opposite: topping creates weak, brittle regrowth that fails more easily in storms. It also permanently damages tree health.

After the Storm: What to Do First

• →Stay away from downed trees that may still be under tension
• →Check for hanging branches ('widow makers') before entering your yard
• →Call 811 before any digging near downed trees (buried utilities)
• →Document all damage with photos before any cleanup — for insurance
• →Call a licensed, insured tree service — avoid storm chasers with no local credentials

Emergency vs. Non-Emergency After a Storm

If a tree has fallen on your home, vehicle, or is blocking emergency access — call us immediately at +1 804-533-3943. For damage that is not an active safety hazard, we can schedule next-day service. Never put yourself in danger to assess storm damage.

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