This One Tree Care Sydney Tip Could Save You Thousands

Storm Season Is Coming—Is Your Backyard Ready?

Every year, as summer storms start to roll through Sydney, we see the same pattern: trees come down, fences are crushed, power lines get tangled, and homeowners are left with thousands in damage—and a massive headache. The worst part? So much of it is preventable.

If you’ve got trees on your property (and let’s face it, in Sydney, who doesn’t?), there’s one simple but powerful thing you can do right now that could save you a ton of money—and possibly your roof.

Why Trees Become Dangerous in Sydney Storms

It’s easy to assume your trees will stand strong during high winds or heavy rain. But even healthy-looking trees can be harbouring issues that make them dangerous in wild weather.

Common Tree Hazards Before a Storm

• Dead or dying branches that can snap off in high winds

• Overgrown canopies that act like sails and catch the wind

• Trees with past lopping wounds that regrow weakly

• Internal rot or pest damage, which weakens the trunk or limbs

• Shallow or compromised roots, especially in clay soils or slopes

There was a case a few years ago where a large gum tree in a Northern Beaches backyard split at the base during a storm. It had looked fine from the outside. But inside, it was hollow and riddled with borers. It took out part of a garage, crushed the back fence, and cost well over $15,000 to clean up and repair.

The One Tree Care Tip That Works: Preventative Pruning

If there’s one thing we tell every homeowner leading into storm season, it’s this: book a professional tree pruning before the storms hit.

What Is Preventative Tree Pruning?

It’s the process of strategically trimming trees to remove:

• Dead or weak branches

• Overextended limbs

• Crossing or rubbing limbs

• Regrowth from previous cuts that’s poorly attached

Pruning reduces the overall weight and wind resistance of a tree, making it much less likely to suffer breakage or uprooting in high winds.

Why This Saves You Thousands

Let’s break it down:

• A fallen branch through your roof = $$$ in repairs

• Tree limbs overhanging power lines? That’s a council or Ausgrid fine waiting to happen

• Emergency tree removal costs double or more compared to planned pruning

• Some home insurance policies may reject storm damage claims if you’ve neglected tree maintenance

In short, a few hundred dollars now can save you from major costs—and stress—later.

When Is the Best Time to Prune?

Ideal Timing for Tree Care in Sydney

Late winter to early spring is generally ideal. The tree is less active, and there’s less risk of disease. But honestly? If storm season is just weeks away and your trees haven’t been checked—do it now.

Even light trimming of risky limbs can make a huge difference.

Should You DIY or Call the Pros?

We get it—climbing a ladder with a saw sounds like a fun weekend project. But here’s why it’s usually not a good idea:

• Most serious injuries in tree work come from homeowners

• You risk damaging the tree with bad cuts (leading to future problems)

• You might need a permit for certain species or sizes

• And climbing without the right safety gear? Genuinely dangerous

  
  
  
  

Hiring a certified arborist ensures the job is done safely, legally, and in a way that keeps your tree healthy long-term. Professionals also know Sydney’s specific tree regulations—and what local councils require.

Other Ways to Prepare Your Trees for Storms

While pruning is your number one move, there are a few extra things that can reduce risk even further.

Tree Bracing & Cabling

For trees with structural weaknesses (like a split trunk or heavy lean), bracing or cabling might help reinforce them. It’s not suitable for all trees, but when it works, it can prevent a complete collapse.

Check the Roots

Exposed roots, cracks in the soil, or leaning trees can indicate unstable roots. These are high-risk during storms and may need removal or soil support.

Mulching & Watering

It might sound unrelated, but healthy trees are stronger. Applying mulch around the base helps retain moisture and reduce stress. Just keep it away from the trunk.

Real Story: A Quick Prune That Made All the Difference

A homeowner in Lane Cove had a large jacaranda near the corner of their house. It had a few limbs hanging over the roof and power lines. It seemed fine, but after a routine prune from an arborist, it was clear some of the branches were diseased.

Those branches were removed just two weeks before a massive summer storm hit. Neighbours had branches down all over the street—but that jacaranda stood firm. No damage, no emergency call-out, no stress.

Sometimes, that one visit really is the difference.

Tree Care Sydney Residents Can Rely On

Sydney weather doesn’t mess around. And your trees don’t just add beauty—they can also pose a serious threat when neglected.

If you’ve got mature trees near your home, fence, carport, or neighbour’s property—now is the time to act.

At Arbor Co Tree Services, we’ve been helping Sydney homeowners with professional tree care for over 20 years. From storm prep to pruning, removals, and everything in between, we’ve got the experience (and equipment) to do it safely.

Don’t wait until a storm makes the decision for you.Preventative pruning is quick, affordable, and one of the smartest ways to protect your property.

👉 Book your pre-storm tree inspection today with Arbor Co Tree Services — your local experts in tree care Sydney residents trust.