Signs your tree is dangerous or dying

A large tree failing near your home is exactly the kind of thing you want to prevent rather than react to. Most dangerous trees give warning signs first. Here is what to watch for.

Warning signs to look for

Large deadwood

Bare, leafless limbs in an otherwise green tree, especially big ones over the house or driveway, are a clear hazard. Deadwood can drop without warning.

Cracks and splits

Vertical cracks in the trunk or splits where limbs join the trunk are a sign of structural weakness. These can fail suddenly.

Fungus at the base

Mushrooms or bracket fungi around the base or on the trunk can indicate internal rot, which weakens the tree from the inside.

Lifting roots or leaning

Soil lifting on one side, exposed roots, or a new or worsening lean can mean the root plate is failing. A sudden lean after a storm is a red flag.

Hollows and cavities

Large hollows reduce the strength of the trunk or limbs. Some hollows are stable and valuable for wildlife, others are not. An arborist can tell the difference.

What to do if you spot these

Do not ignore it, and do not try to deal with a hazardous tree yourself. Keep clear of it, especially in wind, and get it assessed. If powerlines are involved, contact your electricity provider.

The easiest first step is to text us a photo. We will tell you honestly whether it needs attention, and how urgent it is. See our dead and dangerous tree removal service for how we make these trees safe.