Call a certified arborist when you see a leaning trunk, large cracks, dead limbs over a structure, mushrooms at the base, or sudden changes in leaf color or growth. These are signals of structural weakness or disease. A tree that looks sturdy can still be at risk, so an assessment is worth it when anything seems off.
Below are the main warning signs, which you can check from the ground, and what to do about each.
Why a tree assessment matters
Trees hold stored weight, wind load and water. When a defect weakens a trunk or root system, failure can happen quickly, especially in storms or under heavy wet snow. Early inspection can often save a tree through pruning, support or improved care, and removal can be planned instead of rushed.
Look for a certified arborist, for example one credentialed through the International Society of Arboriculture, and ask to see their credentials and proof of insurance. Be cautious of door-to-door offers to “top” a tree, which is a harmful practice.
Structural warning signs
Leaning trees
A tree that has always leaned slightly is usually fine. A tree whose lean has increased, with soil heaving or cracks on the opposite side of the lean, may be failing at the roots. Treat a sudden lean as urgent.
Cracks, splits and included bark
Long vertical cracks, open seams, or a union where two trunks join in a tight V (often with bark squeezed between them) are weak points. Co-dominant stems with included bark tend to split under load.
Dead or hanging branches
Dead limbs, sometimes called widowmakers when large, can drop without warning. Look for branches with no leaves in season, peeling bark or hanging partially broken. Any dead limb over a driveway, roof or play area deserves attention.
Cavities and decay
Hollows, soft or crumbling wood and large open wounds can indicate internal decay. A hollow tree is not automatically hazardous, but how much sound wood remains around the cavity matters, and an arborist can assess this.
Root and soil warning signs
- Mushrooms or conks at the base or on roots: often a sign of decay fungi.
- Heaved, lifted or cracked soil or paving near the trunk
- Exposed or cut roots from trenching, construction or grade changes
- Soil piled against the trunk or the flare buried (see mulch mistakes that hurt trees and shrubs)
- Standing water that never drains from the root zone
Root damage from construction often shows up years later as dieback.
Health and canopy warning signs
- Thinning canopy or bare tops with sparse leaves
- Early fall color or leaves dropping in midsummer
- Small, pale or scorched leaves
- Sap oozing or dark weeping stains on bark
- Small round exit holes or fine sawdust (frass) on the trunk, which suggest boring insects
- Peeling or missing bark in large patches
- Unusual webbing, spotting or heavy insect activity
Regional pests and diseases change over time. A local arborist will know what is currently affecting trees in your area.
After a storm
Inspect trees after high wind, ice or heavy snow. Check for split branches, torn bark, lifted roots and trees leaning on other trees or lines. Stay well away from anything touching utility wires and call the utility company. Do not attempt to cut tensioned or hung limbs yourself.
Prune, support, treat or remove?
Not every problem means removal. Options an arborist might discuss include:
- Pruning to remove dead wood, reduce weight or improve structure
- Cabling or bracing to support weak unions
- Soil care and mulching to improve vigor
- Treatment for certain pests or diseases
- Removal when a tree is dead, dangerously unstable or too far gone
Removal near structures needs rigging and planning. Our tree care and removal service covers pruning, removal and ongoing care, and trees are part of long-term full estate management planning for larger properties. Seasonal inspection fits naturally into your fall cleanup.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I have my trees inspected?
Walk your property regularly, and consider a professional inspection every few years for mature trees, or after major storms or construction.
Is a tree with a few dead branches dying?
Not necessarily. Many trees shed small dead branches normally. Widespread dieback, a thinning canopy or dead limbs in the upper crown are more concerning.
Can I remove a large tree myself?
It is dangerous. Large tree work involves falling loads, rigging and often nearby structures or wires. Hire trained, insured professionals.
If you are concerned about a tree on your property, you can request a consultation.