A Cypress homeowner’s tree-trimming photos sparked hundreds of comments online, raising questions about what CenterPoint Energy is responsible for and what homeowners should know about trees near power lines.
ENOUGH’s Amy Davis shared photos sent by Amanda in Cypress after a CenterPoint contractor trimmed a tree in front of her home. Amanda is concerned the tree now looks unbalanced and leans toward her house.
The post drew about 700 comments, with viewers debating whether the trimming went too far — or whether it is necessary to help prevent power outages.
Some commenters defended the work, arguing that trees growing too close to power lines can cause outages.
“People complain about trees being cut but also complain if the trees cause power outages,” David Jones wrote.
According to CenterPoint’s website, the work is intended to improve electrical safety and reliability. The company says its arborists follow industry-recommended practices to encourage future growth away from power lines, minimize stress on trees and reduce the likelihood of disease and decay.
CenterPoint also acknowledges that homeowners may be surprised by how their trees look after trimming.
Some viewers argued that homeowners should take responsibility for trees on their property.
“It is Amanda’s job to keep her tree trimmed, if it is on her property (and it looks like it is),” Tena M. Clark commented.
Paula Shaw suggested homeowners hire an arborist to properly trim trees away from power lines.
CenterPoint says property owners are responsible for maintaining vegetation on their property. However, the company also has a vegetation-management program to clear trees and branches from its electrical infrastructure.
The responsibility for a particular tree can depend on its location and its proximity to power lines and other electrical equipment.
Homeowners should not attempt to trim trees near energized power lines themselves. CenterPoint advises customers to contact the company if they believe a tree is too close to electrical lines.
Customers can call 713-207-2222 or 1-800-332-7143 to request an assessment.
More info: CenterPoint’s tree-trimming contractor information
Some viewers said they would prefer to have a tree removed rather than repeatedly trimmed.
Virginia Duke shared that CenterPoint removed a tree in her backyard after she requested it. She said she did not have to pay for the tree to be cut down but had to arrange for stump removal.
CenterPoint says it may remove trees near its power lines depending on factors such as the tree’s species, size, health, growth rate and the electrical equipment it could affect.
Removal is not guaranteed simply because a homeowner requests it.
For example, CenterPoint says that when it removes a dead tree that threatens its electrical equipment, the homeowner may be responsible for disposing of the wood left on-site.
CenterPoint advises people to stay at least 10 feet away from power lines, including objects they are holding, such as tree pruners and pool poles.
The company also warns people never to climb trees near power lines, even if branches do not appear to be touching them. Downed trees may conceal entangled electrical lines.
If you see a tree touching a power line or a downed line, stay away and report the hazard to the utility.
CenterPoint says customers can request an assessment if they believe a tree is too close to electrical lines. For planned trimming, contractors generally provide advance notice and contact information so homeowners can discuss concerns before work begins.
If you are concerned that trimming has left a tree leaning or potentially unsafe, consider contacting a qualified arborist to evaluate its condition. Contact CenterPoint to raise concerns about work performed near its electrical equipment.
For questions about tree trimming near power lines, call CenterPoint at 713-207-2222 or 1-800-332-7143.
