What are the warning signs that my tree might be hazardous?

Hazardous trees often show warning signs like sudden or increased leaning, cracks or splits in branches or the trunk, dead or declining branches, visible decay or fungus, shifting soil, or exposed roots. Storm damage—including broken limbs or new cracks—also signals potential risk. If you notice these, it’s time for a professional evaluation.

Can a hazardous tree be saved, or does it always need to be removed?

Not all hazardous trees need to be removed. Depending on the issue, a certified arborist may recommend solutions like pruning, cabling, bracing, soil improvement, or regular monitoring to stabilize and preserve the tree. Removal is only advised when it’s the safest choice.

When should I call a certified arborist to inspect my tree?

Contact a TRAQ-Qualified and ISA-Certified arborist if you see any hazardous signs—such as leaning, visible root problems, deadwood, decay, cracks, or storm damage—or if a tree is situated near your home, driveway, property lines, or high-traffic areas. Early intervention can often prevent costly property damage.

What types of damage do storms typically cause to trees in Corvallis?

In the Mid-Willamette Valley, winter storms and high winds commonly cause broken branches, fresh cracks, new leaning, split limb unions, and even uprooting. Trees with existing weaknesses are especially vulnerable. After a storm, schedule a risk assessment to catch and address potential hazards.

Why is it important to address tree hazards early?

Early detection and mitigation of hazardous tree conditions protect your property, loved ones, and neighbors—and can save money in the long run. Addressing problems like decay, root instability, or storm damage before a failure occurs reduces risk and helps keep your trees healthy and safe.

Signs Your Tree May Be Hazardous (Homeowner’s Guide)

Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property—but they can also pose safety risks when they weaken or become structurally compromised. Many hazardous tree conditions develop gradually, while others appear suddenly after storms, soil saturation, or seasonal changes.

Recognizing early warning signs can prevent costly damage and protect the safety of your home, family, and neighbors.

This guide outlines the most common indicators that a tree may be hazardous and when you should call an ISA Certified Arborist for evaluation.

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Leaning Trees or Sudden Changes in Position

A tree that begins leaning unexpectedly, or leans more over time, may have compromised root support or internal structural issues. While some trees have a natural lean, sudden changes—especially following high winds or heavy rains—warrant immediate evaluation.

Concerning signs include:

These symptoms may indicate root failure, which can lead to sudden toppling.

Cracks, Splits, or Weak Branch Unions

Structural defects are among the most common causes of limb failure. Look for:

Cracks along limbs or the trunk
Splits at branch attachments
“V-shaped” branch unions, which are inherently weak
Bark included in branch unions

These issues often require professional pruning, cabling, or bracing to prevent failure.

Dead, Dying, or Declining Branches

Deadwood is a natural part of a tree’s life cycle, but excessive dead branches—especially large ones—pose significant risk during storms or high winds.

Declining branches may display:

No leaves during the growing season
Brittle or dry texture
Peeling bark
Fungus or decay
Sparse foliage

Dead or declining limbs often fail unpredictably.

Signs of Decay, Fungi, or Compromised Trunk Stability

Decay does not always produce visible symptoms, but when it does, the common indicators include:

Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base
Hollow areas or cavities
Soft or crumbly wood
Missing bark
Bulges or cavities along the trunk

While trees can survive for years with decay, the structural integrity may be weakened.

Root Problems or Soil Shifting

Root failures are among the most dangerous because they often go unseen. Warning signs include:

Soil mounding at the base
Visible root lifting
Declining canopy
Cracks radiating from the trunk
Reduced leaf size or premature leaf drop

Construction, soil compaction, changes in irrigation, and drainage issues can all weaken roots.

Trees Near Structures, Driveways, or High-Use Areas

Even healthy trees can pose increased risk when they grow near:

Homes
Garages
Parking areas
Play structures
Walkways
Property lines

A tree with structural defects near a target becomes significantly more hazardous.

Storm, Ice, or Wind Damage

The Mid-Willamette Valley frequently experiences winter storms and heavy winds that can stress or break limbs. After a storm, check for:

Broken or hanging branches
Fresh cracks
Leaning
Uprooting
Split crotches

Immediate evaluation is recommended when storm damage is visible.

When to Call a Certified Arborist

If you notice any of the warning signs above, it’s important to call a TRAQ-Qualified and ISA-Certified Arborist. They can determine whether the tree can be saved through pruning, cabling, bracing, soil improvement, or monitoring—or whether removal is the safest option.

At Corvallis Tree Care, we provide free on-site assessments to help you make informed, confident decisions about your landscape.

GET A FREE ASSESSMENT

What are the warning signs that my tree might be hazardous?
Hazardous trees often show warning signs like sudden or increased leaning, cracks or splits in branches or the trunk, dead or declining branches, visible decay or fungus, shifting soil, or exposed roots. Storm damage—including broken limbs or new cracks—also signals potential risk. If you notice these, it’s time for a professional evaluation.
Can a hazardous tree be saved, or does it always need to be removed?
Not all hazardous trees need to be removed. Depending on the issue, a certified arborist may recommend solutions like pruning, cabling, bracing, soil improvement, or regular monitoring to stabilize and preserve the tree. Removal is only advised when it’s the safest choice.
When should I call a certified arborist to inspect my tree?
Contact a TRAQ-Qualified and ISA-Certified arborist if you see any hazardous signs—such as leaning, visible root problems, deadwood, decay, cracks, or storm damage—or if a tree is situated near your home, driveway, property lines, or high-traffic areas. Early intervention can often prevent costly property damage.
What types of damage do storms typically cause to trees in Corvallis?
In the Mid-Willamette Valley, winter storms and high winds commonly cause broken branches, fresh cracks, new leaning, split limb unions, and even uprooting. Trees with existing weaknesses are especially vulnerable. After a storm, schedule a risk assessment to catch and address potential hazards.
Why is it important to address tree hazards early?
Early detection and mitigation of hazardous tree conditions protect your property, loved ones, and neighbors—and can save money in the long run. Addressing problems like decay, root instability, or storm damage before a failure occurs reduces risk and helps keep your trees healthy and safe.