Broken Tree Limb Removal observations for Abilene properties

Observation	What to record	Practical response
Core finding	One broken limb does not automatically mean the whole tree must be removed. The decision depends on the failed union, remaining crown, trunk and root condition, decay, target exposure, and whether a stable structure can remain after correct pruning.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Decision scope	Use a specific objective and preserve healthy growth that is not part of the problem.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Safety condition	Keep people away from overhead hazards, unstable wood, and conductors.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Site information	Document access, nearby targets, utilities, and debris preferences.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Assessment threshold	Choose on-site assessment when the condition or safe work method is uncertain.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.

Document Storm-Damaged Trees observations for Abilene properties

Observation	What to record	Practical response
Core finding	Document storm damage only from a safe location. Wide photos, close views taken without entering the drop zone, dates, weather notes, affected structures, and professional estimates create a clearer record. Contact the insurer for policy-specific instructions; tree-care contractors do not decide coverage.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Decision scope	Use a specific objective and preserve healthy growth that is not part of the problem.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Safety condition	Keep people away from overhead hazards, unstable wood, and conductors.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Site information	Document access, nearby targets, utilities, and debris preferences.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Assessment threshold	Choose on-site assessment when the condition or safe work method is uncertain.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.

Lightning-Struck Tree observations for Abilene properties

Observation	What to record	Practical response
Core finding	A lightning-struck tree should be treated as a changing condition. Keep people away, look for hanging branches, fresh cracks, smoke, or fire, and call emergency services if there is an active fire. A visible bark scar does not reveal the full extent of internal or root damage, so monitoring and assessment matter.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Decision scope	Use a specific objective and preserve healthy growth that is not part of the problem.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Safety condition	Keep people away from overhead hazards, unstable wood, and conductors.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Site information	Document access, nearby targets, utilities, and debris preferences.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.
Assessment threshold	Choose on-site assessment when the condition or safe work method is uncertain.	Photograph and compare over time; request an assessment if the condition is active or creates a safety risk.