Is My Tree Dangerous? Warning Signs to Look For
Most dangerous trees give warnings: large dead limbs, cracks or splits in the trunk, a weak V-shaped fork, a new lean, lifting soil at the base or mushrooms growing on the trunk or roots. If you see one of these near your house, driveway or play area, have the tree checked.
Request tree serviceAre there dead or hanging limbs?
Dead branches have no leaves in summer, bark peeling off and often a grey, brittle look. Broken limbs hung up in the canopy, sometimes called widow-makers, can fall without warning.
Is there a crack or split?
Look for long cracks in the trunk and splits where two large stems meet. A tight V-shaped fork with bark squeezed between the stems is a common weak point that can split apart in wind.
Is the tree leaning more than before?
Many trees lean a little and are fine. A new lean, especially with soil heaving or cracking on the opposite side of the trunk, means the roots may be failing.
Are the roots damaged?
Roots cut for driveways, trenches or foundations can't hold the tree as well. Decline may take years to show.
What does fungus mean?
Mushrooms or shelf-like conks on the trunk or roots often mean decay inside. The tree can look healthy above while the base rots.
What should I do?
Keep people away from the area under the tree and book a tree health check. If the tree is clearly failing and threatens the house, send an urgent request for tree removal.
How close is too close?
A rough rule is to worry most about trees that could reach the house, driveway or play area if they fell. A tall tree well away from anything is lower risk, even if it has some problems.
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