Emergency Tree Services
What to do when trees fall or pose immediate danger in North Vancouver.
Who to Call First
Life-Threatening Situations
911
Call if anyone is injured, trapped, or in immediate danger. Do not attempt rescue if power lines are involved.
Downed Power Lines
1-888-769-3766
BC Hydro Emergency Line. Stay at least 10 meters away. Treat all lines as live—they can kill instantly.
Blocked Roads
604-990-2311
District of North Vancouver. Report trees blocking public roads or sidewalks.
Private Property Emergency
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Find Emergency ArboristWhat Qualifies as an Emergency?
Immediate Emergency (Call 911 / BC Hydro)
- Tree has fallen on a person, vehicle with occupants, or structure
- Tree touching or near power lines
- Tree blocking only exit/entrance to property
- Large branch hanging precariously over occupied area
- Tree fell during active storm with people nearby
High Priority (Same Day Service)
- Tree fallen on unoccupied vehicle or structure
- Major branch split but still attached
- Tree leaning severely after storm (sudden change)
- Root ball lifted or exposed after wind
- Tree blocking driveway but alternate access available
Urgent (Within 24-48 Hours)
- Large dead branches over parking area or yard
- Tree showing sudden severe lean
- Trunk crack that appeared suddenly
- Storm damage that isn't immediately dangerous
- Tree damaged but standing
Immediate Safety Steps
Evacuate the Danger Zone
Get everyone away from the tree. Stay at least twice the tree's height away. Don't attempt to move or stabilize it yourself.
Check for Power Lines
If any wires are touching or near the tree, stop immediately. Call BC Hydro. Even if lines appear intact, they may be damaged.
Secure the Area
Block access with cones, tape, or barriers. Warn neighbors. Don't let children or pets near fallen trees—they can shift.
Document the Damage
Take photos from safe distances for insurance. Don't touch or move anything until professionals assess it.
Call Professionals
Contact emergency tree services and your insurance company. Get multiple quotes if time allows.
Emergency Service Costs
Emergency tree work costs significantly more than scheduled service due to immediate response, night/weekend rates, and hazardous conditions.
Emergency Premium
50-100% over regular rates
After-hours, weekends, and immediate response command premium pricing. Emergency rates typically start at $500 minimum call-out.
Typical Emergency Costs
- Small tree removal: $800-$2,000
- Medium tree removal: $2,000-$5,000
- Large tree removal: $5,000-$10,000+
- Branch removal only: $400-$1,500
- Tree stabilization: $300-$1,000
Additional Factors
- Power line proximity
- Structure damage risk
- Required equipment (crane)
- Time of day/week
- Access difficulty
- Weather conditions
Insurance Coverage
What's Typically Covered
- Tree removal if it damaged your home or insured structure
- Emergency stabilization to prevent further damage
- Debris removal from insured structures
- Temporary repairs to protect property
What's Usually NOT Covered
- Removal of fallen tree that didn't damage structures
- Preventative removal of hazardous trees
- Landscaping restoration
- Trees that fell due to lack of maintenance
Important: Call your insurance company immediately after emergency services. Take extensive photos. Keep all receipts.
Storm Preparation
North Vancouver's winter storms bring high winds and heavy snow. Prepare before emergencies happen:
- Have trees inspected annually before storm season (September-October)
- Remove dead branches preemptively
- Thin dense canopies to reduce wind resistance
- Keep emergency arborist contact information handy
- Know your insurance coverage details
- Photograph trees annually for insurance records
- Identify hazard trees near structures
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