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A damaged tree doesn't always need to come down. Sometimes removing a few dead branches or trimming it properly is enough. Other times, leaving it alone can put your home, vehicles, or property at risk.
The hard part is knowing the difference. So, how can you tell when a tree might be dangerous? Here are five signs to watch for.
1. The Tree Has Large Dead or Dying Sections
A few dead branches don't mean the whole tree needs to be removed. Large sections of deadwood are more concerning. Take a look at the canopy during the growing season. Are there large areas with no leaves? Do some of the limbs look dry or brittle? Is bark falling off in certain areas?
These can all be signs that part of the tree is dying. Dead branches are also more likely to break. Strong winds, heavy snow, and ice can be enough to bring them down.
If the problem is limited to a few branches, trimming may be all that's needed. We go into this more in our guide on tree removal vs. tree trimming.
2. You Notice Cracks, Splits, or Decay in the Trunk
The trunk supports the entire tree. Major damage here is worth paying attention to. Look for deep cracks, large splits, hollow areas, or obvious decay. You may also notice mushrooms or fungal growth near the trunk or around the base.
Don't assume a tree is healthy just because it's still green. A tree can continue growing leaves even when there's a structural problem with the trunk. A crack or cavity doesn't automatically mean the tree needs to come down either. It depends on how severe the damage is and where it's located.
When you're unsure, it's best to have someone take a closer look.
3. The Tree Has Started to Lean
Some trees naturally grow at an angle. If a tree has leaned the same way for years, that alone isn't necessarily a problem. A new lean is different.
Maybe you noticed it after a storm or maybe it looks a little worse than it did last year. Either way, check around the base of the tree. Look for raised soil, exposed roots, or fresh cracks in the ground. Those are signs that something may have shifted below the surface.
Also consider which direction the tree is leaning. A tree leaning toward the woods is one thing. A tree leaning toward your house, garage, or driveway deserves more attention.
4. The Roots Have Been Damaged or the Ground Is Shifting
Most of a tree's root system is underground, so root problems aren't always obvious. Construction and digging can damage roots. Changes to the surrounding soil can cause problems too. Storms may even shift the tree enough to disturb its root system.
Check the ground around the base. Do you see new cracks in the soil? Is the ground lifting on one side? Are roots suddenly more exposed than they used to be? Those are signs worth investigating.
Roots are what keep the tree anchored. If they're badly damaged, trimming the branches won't necessarily solve the underlying problem.
5. The Tree Is Damaged and Near Something Important
Where the tree stands makes a big difference. A dying tree in the middle of the woods may not pose much of a threat. Put that same tree next to your house and it's a different situation.
Pay closer attention when a damaged tree is hear:
- Your home or garage
- Vehicles or parking areas
- Driveways and walkways
- Utility lines
- Neighboring property
- Areas where people spend time
Vermont weather doesn't make things any easier. Heavy snow and ice put extra weight on weak branches. Strong winds can make existing damage worse. Wet soil can also affect how well a tree is anchored.
If a damaged tree can reach your house or another important part of your property, don't wait for the next storm to start thinking about it.
Does a Hazardous Tree Always Need to Be Removed?
No.
Sometimes removing a damaged limb or trimming part of the tree can solve the problem. If the rest of the tree is healthy and structurally sound, there's no reason to remove it unnecessarily.
It's more concerning when the damage involves the trunk or roots. Widespread decline can also point toward a bigger problem.
That's why it's worth looking at the entire tree before making a decision.
Our tree removal and trimming services cover both options. We can take a look at the tree and determine what makes the most sense for your property.
Don't Wait Until It Becomes an Emergency
You don't want to find out a tree was dangerous after it lands on your roof. Pay attention to changes. A new lean, large dead sections, cracks, decay, root movement, or major storm damage shouldn't be ignored.
Catching a problem early gives you time to figure out what to do. You're not scrambling to deal with a fallen tree after a storm. Waiting can also make removal more difficult. As a damaged tree continues to deteriorate, it can become less stable and harder to work around safely.
Wondering why removing certain trees can get expensive? We break down the work involved in our article on why tree removal costs so much.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a tree is dangerous?
Start with anything that has recently changed. Look for dead sections, cracks in the trunk, a new lean, root movement, decay, or storm damage.
Then look at what's around the tree. Could it reach your house if it fell? Is it hanging over a driveway or parked vehicles? A damaged tree becomes a much bigger concern when people or property are within reach.
Does a leaning tree always need to be removed?
No. Some trees naturally grow at an angle and remain stable for years.
The bigger concern is a lean that's new or getting worse. Check the base of the tree too. Exposed roots, lifted soil, or fresh cracks in the ground could point to movement in the root system.
Can a tree be dangerous even when it has leaves?
Yes. Green leaves don't tell you everything about a tree's condition.
Decay, cracks, and root damage can exist even when the canopy still looks healthy. That's why it's important to look at the entire tree.
Should I remove a dead tree right away?
It depends on where it is.
A dead tree near your house, driveway, road, utility lines, or another busy area should be dealt with sooner. There's more at risk if it comes down.
A dead tree in an isolated part of a large property may not have the same urgency.
Can trimming make a dangerous tree safe?
Sometimes.
If the issue is limited to a damaged or dead branch, trimming may be enough. Problems with the trunk, roots, or overall structure are different and may require removal.
What should I do if a tree looks dangerous after a storm?
Stay away from the damaged area first. Keep vehicles, pets, and other people away too.
Watch for hanging branches, split limbs, a new lean, or movement around the roots. Don't try to cut down large hanging limbs yourself.
If something doesn't look right, have the tree checked before spending time underneath or around it.
Worried About a Tree on Your Property?
You don't have to wait until a questionable tree comes down to deal with it.
Snapping Turtle Tree Works provides hazardous tree removal and tree trimming throughout Central Vermont. We'll take a look at the tree, explain what we're seeing, and help you decide whether removal or trimming makes the most sense.