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.

The Value of Protecting the Mature Trees on Your Property

July 25, 2025
Preserving Your Landscape’s Legacy Mature trees are more than just a backdrop for your property; they are long-standing assets that contribute to environmental health, home value, and the character of your landscape. Whether it is a towering oak shading your backyard or a line of maples defining your property line, established trees offer irreplaceable benefits that deserve careful protection.  At Quality First Tree Service, we specialize in helping homeowners preserve and maintain these natural investments. Here is why mature trees matter, and how to keep them safe, healthy, and thriving. Why Mature Trees Matter 1. Property Value Well-maintained mature trees can increase property value by as much as 10–15%, according to real estate experts. Buyers are often drawn to homes with established landscaping and natural shade.

When to Call a Pro: 6 Signs That a Tree Is a Hazard, Not Just an Eyesore

July 17, 2025
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore Trees are a defining part of the landscape in Tennessee. They provide beauty, shade, and habitat—but they can also become dangerous liabilities when their health declines or their structure is compromised. While some tree issues may seem cosmetic at first glance, others carry serious risks to your property and personal safety. Knowing when a tree has crossed the line from unsightly to unsafe is essential. At Quality First Tree Service, we specialize in identifying and managing these hazards with professional care. Here are the key signs that it is time to stop overlooking that problem tree—and call in the experts.

The Role of Tree Work in Fire Prevention for Tennessee Properties

July 11, 2025
Reducing Fire Risk Starts with Your Trees As summer temperatures rise and dry conditions become more common across Tennessee, the risk of property-damaging fires increases — even in areas not traditionally seen as fire-prone. While wildfires may not be as widespread in the Southeast as they are in the West, brush fires and structural fires can still pose a real threat, especially during dry stretches. One of the most overlooked ways to reduce this risk? Professional tree care. At Quality First Tree Service, we specialize in the safe removal, pruning, and thinning of trees — not only to protect your property from falling limbs but also to help reduce the fuel sources that can accelerate fires. In this article, we explain how proactive tree work plays a crucial role in fire safety for Tennessee homeowners and landowners. Fire Risk Is Closer Than You Think Most people don’t associate Tennessee with large-scale wildfires , but regional fire incidents have increased in recent years due to hotter summers, less predictable rainfall, and increased development in wooded areas. Even small brush fires, once ignited, can spread quickly through overgrown yards, unmanaged woodlots, or properties surrounded by dense trees and dead vegetation.  The key to minimizing that risk lies in managing the landscape — especially what surrounds your home or structures. And that’s where trained tree professionals come in.

How Shade Trees Can Protect Your Home If They’re Maintained Properly

July 3, 2025
The Power of Shade In the heat of a Middle Tennessee summer, few things are more appreciated than a well-placed shade tree. A large, healthy tree can provide real relief from intense sunlight, help regulate your home’s temperature, and even lower your utility bills. But like anything that lives and grows, trees must be properly cared for—especially when they stand close to your home. At Quality First Tree Service, we believe in the benefits of mature trees. But we also know that without regular maintenance, those same trees can become a hazard. Here is what you need to know about the protective power of shade trees—and why smart maintenance matters.

Why Every Tree on Your Property Needs a Health Check

June 13, 2025
Don’t Wait for a Fall Most homeowners notice when a tree is visibly dead or dangerously leaning—but what about the trees that look fine from a distance? Trees can develop serious health issues beneath the surface, often long before symptoms become obvious. Just like a home inspection or a routine checkup at the doctor, a professional tree health assessment helps catch problems early, avoid costly removals, and protect the long-term value of your landscape. At Quality First Tree Service, we offer full-service evaluations by trained professionals who know how to spot risks, diagnose disease, and keep your property safe and thriving. Here is why a regular tree health check is a smart move for any property owner in Middle Tennessee.

It’s Copperhead Season: Why You Need to Get Your Yard Cleared ASAP

June 6, 2025
Protect Your Home from Copperheads This Summer As the weather warms up in Tennessee, homeowners should be aware that copperhead activity increases significantly during late spring and summer. These venomous snakes are among the most common in the region , and they are known for their ability to blend into natural surroundings—particularly brush, wood piles, and yard debris. Copperheads are not aggressive by nature , but when startled or stepped on, they will bite. Their venom is rarely fatal to humans , but a bite can cause serious pain, swelling, and potential complications, especially in children, pets, or individuals with preexisting health issues. The best way to protect your household is not by eliminating snakes—it’s by making your yard less inviting to them in the first place. At Quality First Tree Service, we emphasize proactive prevention. One of the most effective steps you can take this season is to clear brush, remove debris, and reclaim overgrown areas where copperheads are most likely to shelter.

How Tree Trimming Can Improve Sunlight and Airflow for Your Property

May 29, 2025
Unlocking the  Hidden Perks of Professional Tree Trimming Tree trimming is often seen as a maintenance task—something homeowners do to keep their yards tidy or remove low-hanging branches. But done strategically and professionally, tree trimming has much broader benefits. Two of the most important, and often overlooked, are improved sunlight penetration and better airflow throughout your property. At Quality First Tree Service, we approach trimming as both a safety measure and a health-focused solution. When performed correctly, trimming enhances the environment for your trees, your landscape, and your home itself.

Trees Prone to Storm Damage in Middle Tennessee

May 22, 2025
Storm-Ready Yards Living in Middle Tennessee means dealing with frequent weather changes, including strong storms that bring heavy wind, rain, and even ice. While many trees in this region thrive in the climate, certain species are more vulnerable to storm damage than others. For homeowners in Columbia, Spring Hill, and surrounding areas, knowing which trees are more likely to fail under pressure is crucial for maintaining a safe property. At Quality First Tree Service & Landscaping, we see the same tree-related storm hazards again and again. Here are the top species to monitor closely and consider removing or trimming before the next storm hits.

What to Expect From Professional Stump Grinding Services: A Homeowner’s Guide

May 14, 2025
The Benefits of Stump Grinding: Clean, Safe, and Efficient After a tree is removed, what’s left behind is often an unsightly stump. While some people choose to leave it alone, there are solid reasons to have it taken care of—both for aesthetics and safety. That’s where stump grinding comes in. This process is quick, efficient, and offers a clean solution to what can become a long-term nuisance if ignored. If you’ve never had stump grinding done before, here’s what you can expect—and when you should consider making the call.

Storm Damage 101: What to Do When a Tree Falls on Your Property

May 7, 2025
Don’t Wait—What to Do When a Tree Falls After a Storm Storms can hit hard and fast in Tennessee. High winds, heavy rain, or ice can turn even the healthiest-looking tree into a dangerous threat. If a tree falls on your property—whether it’s across your driveway, leaning on your home, or tangled in power lines—it’s critical to act quickly and safely. At Quality First Tree Service, we specialize in emergency tree services and know exactly how to handle these situations. Here’s what you need to know if a tree comes down on your property.  Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess From a Distance The moment a tree falls , your first priority should be safety. Don’t try to move limbs, approach the tree, or climb onto your roof. Fallen trees may seem stable but can shift suddenly, especially if they’re resting on a structure or tangled in other trees. If power lines are involved, stay far away and call your utility company immediately—live wires are a serious and immediate danger. Assess the situation from a safe distance. Take note of what the tree has damaged: Is it blocking access? Has it hit your home, shed, fence, or vehicle? This information will help guide the next steps and give professionals the details they need to respond quickly.