Broken or hanging limbs
Look for snapped branches, deadwood or limbs sitting lower than usual—especially over roofs, paths and parking areas.
FREE NORTHERN RIVERS FIELD GUIDE
Storm-season tree check
A calm walk around the property before severe weather can reveal changes worth acting on. Use this quick guide from safe ground, then keep the printable checklist handy.
✓ Two-page A4 PDF✓ Easy to print✓ Free to use
A FIVE-MINUTE WALK-AROUND
Six things to look for from the ground
Take dated photos from a safe position. They make it easier to recognise whether a lean, crack, canopy or branch position has changed over time.
Fresh cracks or splits
From safe ground, note new openings, torn bark, cavities or recently exposed timber at trunks and major branch unions.
A change in lean
A new lean, lifted soil or cracking near the root plate deserves prompt attention. Do not push or test the tree.
Canopy decline
Notice sudden dead foliage, bare sections, unusual leaf loss or fungal growth around the trunk and root area.
What could be struck
Consider driveways, vehicles, play areas, fences, sheds and the only access route—not only the house.
Clearance and access
Note nearby roofs, roads and powerlines, plus narrow gates, steep slopes or wet ground that could affect access.
PLAN EARLY
Deal with concerns before the warning
Routine assessment and pruning are easier to arrange before damaging wind and heavy rain arrive.
AFTER WEATHER
Keep clear of damaged trees
Do not stand under hung limbs or approach trees that may contact fallen or damaged powerlines.
SHARE THE SITE
Photos help explain access and risk
Include the whole tree, nearby buildings, access routes and anything that has visibly changed.
PRINT OR TICK THROUGH IT NOW
My storm-season walk-around
Check only what can be observed safely from the ground. Photograph anything that has changed and include a wide shot showing the surrounding property.
Get the printable PDF ↓STOP AND KEEP CLEAR
Assume fallen wires may be live
Never touch a tree, branch, fence or object that may contact electricity. Keep people away and contact the electricity network or emergency services. Do not climb, use a ladder, stand under a damaged limb or attempt chainsaw work beyond your training.
NEED HELP WITH A TREE?
Share the suburb, site and what has changed
Clear photos can help explain the tree, surrounding targets and access before the next step is arranged.