Common Reasons Your Tree is a Safety Hazard

Your tree can become a safety hazard for various reasons, mainly due to structural weaknesses or damage. Here are some common factors that can make your tree unsafe:

Root Damage or Exposure:

Compromised Stability: The roots are crucial for anchoring the tree and providing stability. Damage to the root system, whether caused by construction activities, erosion, or decay, can significantly weaken the foundation, making the tree prone to falling, especially in strong winds.

Signs of Root Problems: Look for exposed roots, soil erosion around the base, heaving soil, and cracked or broken roots. Mushrooms or fungal growth near the base can also indicate root decay.  This can lead to weak branches and overall decline of the tree, thereby increasing the risk of failure.

A huge, dead oak tree was a hazard to this house in Modjeska Canyon.

Leaning or Unstable Growth:

Indication of Instability: While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden or worsening lean can signal root failure, unstable soil, or damage.

Increased Risk: Leaning trees, particularly those leaning towards structures such as homes, power lines, or roads, pose a heightened risk and should be inspected by a qualified arborist.

Warning Signs: Fresh cracks in the soil around the base, a lean greater than 15 degrees, recently exposed roots, and the tree lifting soil as it tips are all red flags.

Dead or Dying Branches:

Fall Hazards: Branches that are dead or dying are brittle and prone to breaking off unexpectedly, posing a risk of injury or property damage.

Signs of Dead Branches: Look for branches without leaves during the growing season, peeling or missing bark on branches, and no signs of new growth in spring. Regularly falling twigs and branches can also indicate deeper issues.

“Widow Makers”: Broken branches that are still hanging in the tree are particularly dangerous as they are not attached and can fall without warning.

Trunk Damage and Decay:

Weakened Structure: Cracks, splits, cavities, or signs of decay in the trunk can compromise the tree’s structural integrity, making it vulnerable to failure.

Indicators of Decay: Visible cracks or splits, areas of missing or loose bark with soft wood underneath, and fungal growth on the trunk can all point to internal decay.

Disease and Infestation:

Weakened Tree: Certain diseases and pest problems can quickly weaken or kill a tree, rendering it a hazardous condition.

Signs of Disease/Pests: Rapid leaf drop or browning, sawdust-like material, dead areas in the canopy, peeling bark with discoloration, and specific insect damage (like D-shaped holes in ash trees) can indicate a problem.

Poor Growing Locations:

Proximity to Structures: Even healthy trees can become hazardous if they are located too close to buildings, power lines, or roads, as falling branches or roots can cause damage.

Unstable Growth: Trees growing in poor conditions, such as crowded areas or those with inadequate sunlight, may exhibit unstable growth patterns.

Storm Damage:

Compromised Integrity: Storms, such as prolonged periods of heavy rain or high winds, can inflict significant damage to trees, including split trunks, uprooted roots, or broken limbs, rendering them hazardous.

Assess After Storms: After severe weather, check for splits or broken main trunks, large limbs torn from the trunk, significant canopy damage, and any new leaning or root upheaval.

Improper Maintenance:

Weakened Structure: Poor pruning practices, such as tree topping, can lead to weak branches and overall tree decline, thereby increasing the risk of failure.

If you suspect your tree may be a hazard, it’s best to consult with a certified arborist for a professional assessment. They can accurately identify the issue and recommend appropriate action, such as trimming, pruning, cabling, or removal, to ensure your safety and protect your property. ​