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.

A large house with a garage and an american flag in front of it.

1. Dead or Dying Branches

One of the most obvious signs of a hazardous tree is the presence of large dead branches, especially in the upper canopy. These limbs can break off without warning, posing a threat to anyone or anything beneath them.


Look for:

  • Bare branches with no leaves during the growing season
  • Bark that is peeling or falling off in large chunks
  • Branches that snap easily or appear brittle


A professional arborist can assess whether the tree can be pruned to remove dead material or if deeper issues require full removal.

A man is cutting a tree with a chainsaw.

2. Leaning Trees

A tree that is leaning significantly to one side may be structurally unsound, particularly if the lean is recent or appears to be worsening. While not all leaning trees are dangerous, a shift in posture often signals a compromised root system or weakened trunk.


Red flags include:

  • Cracked or heaving soil at the base of the tree
  • Exposed or damaged roots
  • Sudden changes in how the tree is positioned


If a tree’s lean puts it in the path of a structure, driveway, or utility line, it should be inspected immediately.


3. Trunk Damage or Cavities

A tree’s trunk is its core support system. Damage such as large cracks, splits, or hollowed-out areas can seriously weaken it. While some mature trees naturally develop minor cavities, large or deep hollows can signal rot, infestation, or structural instability.


Common signs include:

  • Deep vertical cracks or seams
  • Fungal growth (like mushrooms) on the trunk or base
  • Sounds of hollow knocking when the trunk is tapped


Trunk damage is not always fatal to a tree, but it does require expert evaluation to determine next steps.

A large house is surrounded by trees and a lush green lawn.

4. Root Problems

A tree’s health begins underground. When roots are compacted, cut, or decayed, they lose the ability to anchor the tree securely. Root damage can occur from construction, soil erosion, drought, or disease—and it is often hidden from plain view.


Warning signs:



Because root systems are difficult to inspect without experience and equipment, a certified tree professional should assess any suspected issues.

A path in a park surrounded by grass and trees.

5. Insect Infestations and Disease

Insects like borers, carpenter ants, and bark beetles can hollow out a tree from within, while diseases such as canker, anthracnose, or root rot can eat away at its strength. Many of these issues spread silently, and by the time symptoms are visible, the tree may already be structurally unsound.


Look for:

  • Oozing sap or sawdust at the trunk
  • Unusual leaf discoloration or premature leaf drop
  • Small holes in the bark or visible insect activity


If you notice any of these signs, a professional diagnosis is critical.

A close up of a tree branch with yellow leaves

6. Proximity to Structures or Power Lines

Even healthy trees can become hazardous if they are too close to homes, sheds, fences, or utility lines. High winds, ice storms, and even heavy rain can bring large limbs—or entire trees—down. If you have a mature tree growing near critical infrastructure, preventative trimming or removal may be the safest option.


When in Doubt, Call the Experts

Tree hazards are not always obvious to the untrained eye. What may look like a minor issue could be a symptom of a larger structural failure. If you suspect a tree on your property might be dangerous, do not wait until after a storm to take action.


At Quality First Tree Service, we offer expert hazard assessments and professional recommendations for pruning, removal, or land clearing. Our team is trained to work safely and efficiently, ensuring your property stays both beautiful and secure.



If you’re concerned about a tree on your property, contact us today to schedule a consultation. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive when safety is on the line.

A person is cutting a tree with a pole saw.
A close up of a tree with a lot of branches
A pile of logs and leaves on the ground in the woods.
A close up of a tree trunk in a park
A tree without leaves is in the middle of a grassy field
A tree with white flowers is in a grassy field in front of a house.

Seasonal Tree Care for Optimal Growth in Middle Tennessee

August 13, 2025
Seasonal Challenges and Solutions for Tennessee Trees At Quality First Tree Service & Landscaping, we know that trees in Middle Tennessee face unique challenges throughout the year. The region’s mix of hot summers, cool winters, and unpredictable storms means that tree care cannot be a once-a-year task. To keep trees strong, healthy, and beautiful, it is important to provide the right care in each season. Spring: Encouraging Healthy Growth Spring is the season of renewal. As trees come out of dormancy , they need support to channel energy into strong new growth. We start with a thorough inspection to check for winter damage, pests, or signs of disease. If pruning is needed to remove dead or weak branches, spring is an ideal time because it allows the tree to heal and direct resources toward healthy limbs. We also recommend mulching around the base to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature as the weather warms.

Tree Safety for Kids and Pets: What Every Homeowner Should Know

August 6, 2025
Ensure a Safe B  ackyard for Your Kids and Pets For families with children and pets, a backyard should be a place of safety, imagination, and play. But when trees on your property are not properly maintained, that same space can quietly become hazardous. From unstable branches to poisonous plants, there are several hidden dangers that can pose risks to your loved ones, especially the smallest and most curious among them. If you’re a Tennessee homeowner with active little ones or pets who love to roam, it’s time to take a serious look at the condition of your trees and surrounding property.

The Hidden Dangers of Neglecting Stumps on Your Property

August 1, 2025
Don’t Ignore That Stump After a tree comes down, many homeowners assume the hard part is over. But leaving a stump behind is more than an eyesore, it can lead to costly, and sometimes dangerous, problems over time. Whether the tree was removed for safety, health, or landscaping reasons, that leftover stump is not as harmless as it looks. Here are the most important reasons to take stump removal seriously and why it is best handled by professionals. Stumps Attract Pests One of the biggest risks of a neglected stump is pest infestation . As the wood decays, it becomes the perfect environment for termites, carpenter ants, beetles, and even rodents. These pests are drawn to the soft, damp interior of the stump and may build colonies inside it. The problem is that pests do not stay put. From the stump, it is only a short trip to your home’s foundation, walls, or wooden structures. Termite problems often start in old tree stumps, and by the time the damage becomes visible inside the home, the infestation is already well underway.

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.

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.