Signs Your Tree Needs to Be Removed Before It Becomes a Hazard

March 20, 2025

Identifying Hazardous Trees Early

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to a property, but when they become damaged or diseased, they can pose serious risks. A hazardous tree can threaten your home, vehicles, power lines, and even personal safety. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent costly damage and ensure the safety of your property. If you’re unsure about a tree’s condition, it’s always best to contact a professional like Quality First Tree Service & Landscaping for an expert assessment.


Why Tree Removal Is Sometimes Necessary

Trees are living organisms that can suffer from disease, structural issues, and environmental damage. While some trees can be treated and saved, others may become unstable, making removal the safest option. Ignoring a tree that’s at risk of falling can lead to property damage, injuries, and liability issues.

Warning Signs That a Tree Needs to Be Removed

If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to consider professional tree removal services.


1. Visible Decay or Disease

A tree suffering from decay may show signs such as:

  • Soft or crumbly wood
  • Fungal growth like mushrooms at the base
  • Hollow cavities in the trunk or large branches
  • Peeling or missing bark

Fungal infections can spread quickly, weakening the tree and making it more susceptible to collapse. If you notice any of these issues, an arborist should inspect the tree immediately.


2. Large Dead Branches (Also Known as Widowmakers)

Dead branches, especially those that are large or located near your home, are dangerous. These “widowmakers” can fall unexpectedly, causing severe damage to property or injury to anyone underneath. If more than 50% of a tree’s branches are dead or dying, the entire tree may be at risk and should be evaluated by a professional.

3. Significant Leaning or Sudden Tilting

Some trees naturally lean, but a sudden or increasing lean could indicate a serious structural problem. If a tree is leaning more than 15 degrees from vertical, especially after a storm, its root system may be compromised, making it likely to fall.


4. Extensive Root Damage

The roots are the foundation of a tree, and when they become damaged, the tree can become unstable. Signs of root damage include:

  • Exposed roots that appear rotting or decayed
  • Soil heaving or cracking near the tree’s base
  • A tree that appears to be tilting

Root damage often occurs from construction, soil compaction, or fungal infections. If your tree’s roots are compromised, removal may be the safest option.

5. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Deep cracks or splits in a tree trunk indicate structural weakness. If the tree has multiple cracks, it may not be able to withstand strong winds or storms, increasing the risk of failure. In some cases, bracing or cabling may help, but severely cracked trees typically need to be removed.



6. Insect Infestation

Certain pests, such as termites, carpenter ants, and bark beetles, can destroy a tree from the inside out. Signs of an infestation include:

If an infestation is severe, removing the tree may be necessary to prevent the spread of pests to other trees on your property.

7. Proximity to Structures or Power Lines

Even a healthy tree can pose a risk if it’s growing too close to a home, driveway, or power lines. Tree roots can damage foundations and sidewalks, and branches that grow into power lines can become a fire hazard. In cases where pruning won’t solve the problem, removing the tree is the best solution.


What to Do If You Suspect a Tree Is Hazardous

If you notice any of these warning signs, do not attempt to remove the tree yourself. Tree removal is a dangerous job that requires specialized equipment and expertise. Improper removal can lead to injuries, property damage, and even legal liabilities.


At Quality First Tree Service & Landscaping, our professional arborists have the experience and tools necessary to assess tree health and safely remove hazardous trees. We will evaluate the tree and recommend the best course of action, whether it’s removal, pruning, or another form of treatment.

Preventative Tree Care to Avoid Future Hazards

To reduce the risk of tree-related damage in the future, consider these proactive steps:

  • Schedule regular tree inspections to catch early signs of disease or decay.
  • Keep trees properly pruned to remove weak or dead branches.
  • Avoid planting trees too close to homes, driveways, or power lines.
  • Watch for signs of pests or disease, and treat them promptly.



Schedule a Professional Tree Inspection Today

If you’re concerned about a tree on your property, don’t wait until it’s too late. Quality First Tree Service & Landscaping provides expert tree inspections and safe removal services to keep your home and landscape protected. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your trees are healthy and secure.

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