10 Reasons To Call for Emergency Tree Removal

When a tree on your property becomes a hazard, you need to act quickly. Knowing when to call for emergency tree removal can protect your home, your family, and your property from significant damage. A tree that looks unstable or shows signs of disease might require immediate attention from a professional service.

Handling a dangerous tree is not a do-it-yourself project. It requires specialized equipment and expertise to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. Recognizing the warning signs that a tree poses an immediate threat is the first step toward securing your property. From storm damage to signs of severe decay, several situations warrant an urgent call to a tree service professional. This information will help you identify when to call for emergency tree removal.

1. A Leaning Tree Poses an Immediate Hazard

A tree that suddenly begins to lean is a major red flag. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a new or rapidly increasing lean indicates that the root system is failing. This instability makes the tree a significant fall risk. Factors like heavy rain, strong winds, or soil erosion can weaken the roots, causing the tree to lose its anchor in the ground. If you notice a tree on your property has started to tilt, especially toward a structure or a high-traffic area, it is time to call for an emergency assessment. A professional can determine the level of risk and recommend the best course of action.

2. Visible Cracks in the Trunk Compromise Stability

Deep cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk are serious signs of structural weakness. These fissures can extend deep into the wood, compromising the tree’s ability to support its own weight. Cracks can result from various stressors, including lightning strikes, frost, or rapid growth. When a crack appears, the tree becomes vulnerable to breaking apart, particularly during a storm or high winds. Multiple cracks or a single, large fissure that runs a significant length of the trunk are clear indicators that the tree’s integrity is failing. Do not delay in contacting a professional service to evaluate the damage.

3. Large, Detached Branches Threaten Safety

Large branches that are broken but still hanging in the canopy, often called "widowmakers," present a severe and unpredictable danger. These limbs can fall without warning, posing a direct threat to anyone or anything underneath. High winds or heavy snow can cause branches to snap, but they may get caught on other limbs instead of falling immediately. Their precarious position makes them a top priority for removal. Attempting to remove these branches yourself is extremely dangerous. An emergency tree service has the proper equipment and training to safely handle and remove these hazards.

4. Signs of Advanced Tree Disease Are Present

A diseased tree can quickly become a weak tree. Fungi, such as mushrooms growing at the base of the trunk or on the roots, often indicate internal decay. Other signs of advanced disease include large areas of peeling bark, cavities or hollows in the trunk, and a lack of leaves during the growing season. When a tree's vascular system is compromised by disease, it can no longer transport water and nutrients effectively, leading to a rapid decline in health and stability. If you observe these symptoms, an expert evaluation is necessary to determine if the tree can be saved or if it requires immediate removal to prevent it from falling.

5. Your Tree Has Been Damaged by a Storm

Storms can inflict devastating damage on trees. High winds, heavy ice, or lightning strikes can split trunks, break major limbs, or even uproot entire trees. After a severe weather event, it is crucial to inspect your property for any tree damage. A tree that has lost a significant portion of its canopy or has been struck by lightning may be structurally unsound. Even if the damage does not look severe from a distance, hidden cracks or a weakened root system could make the tree a future risk.

6. The Tree Roots Are Damaged or Uplifted

The root system is the foundation of a tree, and any damage to it can have serious consequences. Construction projects, excavation, or even soil compaction can sever or damage major roots, destabilizing the tree. Signs of root damage include soil heaving up around the base of the tree and visible, uplifted roots. A tree with a compromised root system is much more likely to fall, especially during periods of wet, saturated soil or strong winds. If you notice signs of root damage, you need an expert to assess the tree's stability.

7. Your Tree Is Hollow

A hollow trunk is a definitive sign of advanced internal decay. While some trees can survive for years with a hollow trunk, it significantly weakens their structural integrity. You can sometimes identify a hollow tree by tapping on the trunk and listening for a hollow sound. Large cavities or holes also indicate the presence of decay. As the decay progresses, the tree loses its ability to withstand strong winds and the weight of its own canopy. A hollow tree presents a high risk of failure and should be inspected by a professional to determine if emergency removal is necessary.

8. Pests Have Caused Severe Infestation

Certain insects, like emerald ash borers or carpenter ants, can cause extensive damage to a tree. These pests tunnel through the wood, weakening the trunk and branches from the inside out. Signs of a severe infestation may include:

• Numerous small holes in the bark

• Sawdust-like material (frass) at the base of the tree

• Thinning of the canopy

• Vertical cracks in the bark

Once an infestation becomes widespread, the tree’s structural integrity can be so compromised that it becomes a falling hazard. In such cases, emergency removal is often the only safe option to prevent property damage or injury.

9. A Tree Has Fallen on Your Property

If a tree has already fallen on your property, especially if it has landed on your house, a car, or is blocking a driveway, you need immediate assistance. Fallen trees are heavy, and their removal is a complex and dangerous task. Professionals have the heavy machinery and expertise needed to safely cut and remove the tree without causing further damage. Reputable companies also offer tree hauling services in Birmingham, AL, to clear the debris completely, restoring access and safety to your property.

10. The Tree Is Growing Too Close to Power Lines

A tree growing into or near power lines creates a dangerous situation. Contact between branches and wires can lead to power outages, fires, and the risk of electrocution. While routine trimming is typically handled by utility companies, a tree that poses an immediate threat to power lines due to storm damage or rapid growth may require emergency attention. Do not attempt to prune a tree near power lines yourself. Contact a professional tree service that is trained and certified to work in close proximity to electrical hazards.

Secure Your Property Today

Recognizing the signs of a hazardous tree you need to remove is important for every homeowner. From leaning trunks to storm damage, these issues require swift and professional intervention. If you notice any of these warning signs on your property, do not hesitate. Contact a trusted tree service contractor like Brothers Tree Service to assess the situation and provide the necessary emergency removal. Taking decisive action protects your property and ensures the safety of everyone around you.