How to Know When It’s Time to Remove a Tree from Your Property

Trees are a valuable part of your property. They provide shade, improve air quality, increase curb appeal, and can even raise your property value. However, there are times when a tree becomes more of a liability than an asset. Recognizing the signs you need tree removal can help prevent damage to your home, protect your family’s safety, and maintain your landscape's health.

In this guide, you'll learn the key visual and structural signs that indicate a tree should be removed, when to call a professional, and why early action is crucial.

1. Visible Signs of Tree Decay and Disease

One of the most obvious signs you may need to remove a tree is visible decay. A healthy tree should have a strong, solid trunk and healthy bark. If you notice mushrooms or fungal growth at the base of the tree, this may indicate internal rot. Hollow trunks or large cavities can mean the structural integrity of the tree is compromised.

Cracks in the trunk or major limbs are also red flags. If the tree’s bark is peeling excessively or large portions are missing, it may be under serious stress. Dead or falling branches, especially when they drop without wind or storms, suggest the tree is dying from the inside.

2. Compromised Root System

Roots are the foundation of a tree’s health. Unfortunately, they can deteriorate unnoticed until major symptoms appear. Look for signs like exposed or rotting roots, fungus near the base of the tree, or soil that appears pushed up or disturbed around the trunk. These are indicators the root system is failing, which can lead to unexpected tree falls.

Also, if the tree shows signs of leaning or swaying after rainfall or wind, it may be because the roots have lost their grip in the soil. This is an urgent warning that the tree could topple.

3. Leaning Trees or Sudden Tilt

Some trees naturally grow at an angle, but a tree that suddenly starts leaning—especially more than 15 degrees—should be evaluated immediately. This shift can be due to root damage, soil erosion, or trunk injury. Leaning trees are far more likely to fall, especially during a storm.

If you notice cracks in the soil near the base or exposed roots on one side, it could be a sign that the tree is beginning to uproot.

4. Damage After a Storm

Severe weather can wreak havoc on trees. High winds, ice storms, and heavy rain can damage branches or cause splits in the trunk. If you notice broken limbs, hanging branches, or a tree that looks like it’s lost much of its canopy, it’s time to evaluate the risk it poses.

Split trunks and significant branch loss often mean the tree is unstable and won’t recover. If left alone, the weakened structure can cause the tree to fall unexpectedly.

5. Pest Infestations and Wildlife Damage

Infestations by insects like termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring pests can slowly eat away at a tree’s structural core. These insects often enter through wounds or decayed areas, hastening the tree’s decline. Look for small holes in the bark, sawdust-like frass, or active colonies around the base.

Wildlife can also cause damage—woodpeckers, squirrels, or nesting animals can hollow out sections of a tree, weakening it over time. Combined with decay or disease, this can make a tree unsafe.

6. Proximity to Structures or Utilities

Even healthy trees may need removal if they pose a risk to buildings, fences, utility lines, or underground plumbing. Roots can break through sewer pipes or damage foundations, while overhanging branches can destroy roofing or siding during storms.

If a tree is too close to your home, garage, or power lines, it may be smarter to remove it before it becomes a more costly issue.

Palm trees, while visually appealing, can also become problematic over time. Their height, thick trunks, and extensive root systems may interfere with plumbing lines or grow too close to walls and fences. In cities like Perth, where palms are common in residential areas, improper growth or decay can become a safety concern. If you're dealing with a large, overgrown, or diseased palm, professional palm tree removal in Perth by Lumberjacks ensures safe extraction without damage to surrounding property.

7. The Tree Is Dead or Dying

A completely dead tree is a major hazard. No foliage during spring and summer, brittle branches, and discolored or peeling bark are all indicators of death. Sometimes, a tree may appear dead at the top while retaining some green at the bottom—this is known as dieback and usually signals serious internal issues.

A dead tree loses structural integrity and becomes a falling hazard, especially in high winds or during storms. It’s not a matter of if it will fall, but when.

8. When to Call a Certified Arborist

If you’re unsure about your tree’s condition, a certified arborist can evaluate it using tools and expertise beyond what the average homeowner possesses. They can identify internal decay, structural imbalances, and root damage, and determine if the tree can be saved or if removal is necessary.

Arborists also help you navigate local tree ordinances, which may require permits or restrictions on removal.

Conclusion: Remove a Tree from Your Property

Understanding the signs you need tree removal isn’t just about protecting your property—it’s about safety. Trees can fall without warning when their health declines or their structure weakens. By watching for visible decay, root problems, leaning, or storm damage, you can address issues before they escalate. When in doubt, don’t wait for disaster. A certified arborist’s advice can save you time, money, and peace of mind. If you suspect a tree may be unsafe, it’s always better to act early than regret waiting too long.

FAQs

How can I tell if a tree is dangerous?

 Watch for leaning, visible decay, dead limbs, and root exposure. These signs often indicate serious internal or structural problems.

Is it cheaper to remove a tree before it falls?

 Yes. Preventive removal avoids emergency service fees, property damage, and potential injury liabilities.

Will homeowners' insurance cover tree removal?

 It depends. Most policies only cover removal if the tree falls and causes damage. Preventative removal is usually out-of-pocket.

Can I remove a tree myself, or do I need a pro?

 Small trees may be manageable, but for large, diseased, or unstable trees, hiring a professional is safer and more efficient.