Trees provide shade, beauty, and character to your landscape—but when a tree becomes unstable, diseased, or poorly positioned, it can quickly become a serious hazard. At Arborcon, we know the signs of a risky tree aren’t always obvious. That’s why we’re sharing the top red flags to watch for—before disaster strikes.

Whether it’s hurricane season or just a windy afternoon, here’s how to know when it’s time to call in a professional.

1. The Tree Is Leaning—Especially Toward Your Home

Some trees grow at a natural angle, but if you notice a sudden lean or a tree leaning toward your roof, fence, or driveway, don’t wait. This often signals root instability, erosion, or internal decay. The more the tree leans, the more pressure it places on its root base—and the greater the risk of it toppling in high winds.

2. Large Dead Branches in the Canopy

Dead branches may seem harmless, but they’re one of the most common causes of property damage during storms. When dead limbs fall, they can damage siding, smash fences, or break windows. If over 25% of your tree’s canopy appears dead or brittle, it could be a sign the tree is dying or under extreme stress.

3. Visible Trunk Damage: Cracks, Splits, or Cavities

The trunk is your tree’s backbone. Long vertical cracks, deep splits, or hollow cavities weaken the structure and may indicate serious internal rot. If you see bark falling off or insects nesting in open wounds, it’s time to have the tree professionally evaluated before it breaks apart unexpectedly.

4. Fungal Growth Around the Base

Mushrooms or other fungi growing at the base of a tree could mean there’s decay inside the roots or trunk. While not every mushroom is a dealbreaker, fungal growth combined with soft, spongy wood is a clear danger sign. It often points to internal rot that makes the tree more likely to collapse without warning.

5. Root Damage or Ground Movement

Roots keep your tree anchored. If you’ve had recent excavation, new construction, or flooding near the base, your tree’s root system may be compromised. Look for exposed roots, shifting soil, or a mound forming on one side of the tree—these signs suggest that the tree could fall in the near future.

6. Proximity to Power Lines or Structures

Even a healthy tree can be in the wrong place. If branches are encroaching on your roof, touching power lines, or blocking views on your property, it may be safer (and more cost-effective) to remove the tree before it creates a larger issue. Trees growing into overhead lines pose a major fire and outage risk during storm season.

What Sets Arborcon Apart?

We don’t just cut—we assess, protect, and act responsibly. At Arborcon, our experts perform thorough, honest evaluations of any tree on your property. If removal is needed, we:

• Use safe, controlled rigging methods to avoid damage

• Protect surrounding landscapes with mats and barriers

• Fully clean up the area after the job is complete

• Prioritize your safety, property, and peace of mind

We never pressure you into removal. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision—and if there’s a safe alternative, we’ll tell you.

Not Sure if a Tree on Your Property Is Safe?

Get ahead of the risk. Contact Arborcon for a free, professional inspection. We’ll help you determine whether a tree can be saved—or if it’s time to take action.

→ Book your tree inspection today with our Arborist by Contacting us Today!