5 Common Tree Hazards We Find During Assessments

A healthy-looking tree can hide serious dangers. Cracks, weak roots, or silent diseases often go unnoticed until a branch falls or the tree topples. That is why professional tree assessments matter, catching hazards before they cause costly damage or injuries.

At D’s Trees, we specialize in identifying and managing tree hazards before they escalate into emergencies. This article explores the five most common hazards we find during tree assessments, why they matter, and how you can protect your property.

Understanding Tree Hazards and Their Impact on Your Home and Community

A tree hazard is any condition that increases the risk of the tree or part of the tree failing, which could cause injury or property damage. Hazards can stem from poor health, unstable growth patterns, or environmental stress.

Regular assessments are crucial because trees often mask internal decay or hidden weaknesses. A tree that looks strong to the untrained eye may be one storm away from causing significant damage. Proactive inspections reduce liability, maintain property value, and preserve the health of your landscape.

Weak or Cracked Branches

One of the most common hazards we encounter is weak or cracked branches. These limbs may develop from poor pruning, storm damage, or natural aging.

Signs to watch for:

• Visible cracks along large branches
• Deadwood that does not produce leaves in spring
• Branches growing at narrow angles that trap bark and weaken attachment

Risks:
Falling branches can injure people, damage roofs and vehicles, or knock down utility lines. Even a small limb falling from a height can cause major harm.

Expert insight:
A Columbus homeowner once called us after a large cracked limb fell onto their garage during a thunderstorm. The damage was costly, but it could have been prevented with a pre-storm assessment. Never attempt to cut large, cracked limbs yourself; removal requires climbing equipment, safety gear, and precise cuts.

Root Problems and Instability

Roots anchor a tree and supply water and nutrients, so when they are compromised, the entire tree becomes unstable. Root hazards are particularly dangerous because they are often hidden underground.

Common root issues include:

• Decay caused by fungi
• Girdling roots that strangle the tree’s base
• Soil compaction that prevents oxygen flow
• Poor planting depth leading to shallow root systems

Signs of instability:

• Trees leaning noticeably
• Soil mounding at the base
• Exposed roots with visible decay

Risks:
A tree with root failure can topple suddenly, even without severe weather. This poses extreme danger near homes, driveways, or play areas.

Arborist’s note:
Schedule soil aeration and a root collar inspection to spot girdling roots early. In one case, a leaning oak in our service area had advanced decay at its base, the only safe solution was removal.

Tree Diseases and Infestations

Diseases and pests weaken a tree’s structure and can spread quickly if untreated. During assessments, we frequently find signs of fungal infections, boring insects, or leaf blights.

Regional examples:

• Emerald ash borer destroying ash trees
• Oak wilt is causing a rapid decline in oaks
• Anthracnose affecting maples and sycamores

Signs of trouble:

• Discolored or spotted leaves
• Unusual growths on bark or branches
• Small holes or sawdust at the base from boring insects

Risks:
Diseased trees are more likely to lose branches or die prematurely. Left untreated, infestations can spread to neighboring trees and wipe out large parts of a landscape.

Recommendation:
Early treatment is critical. Certified arborists can apply targeted treatments or recommend removal to stop the spread.

Proximity to Structures and Utilities

Trees planted too close to houses, garages, or power lines present unique hazards. While they may look harmless, overhanging branches or invasive roots can create expensive problems.

Common issues include:

• Branches scraping roofs and siding
• Roots damaging foundations, driveways, or septic systems
• Limbs growing into power lines, creating fire hazards

Risks:
Besides the potential for property damage, trees encroaching on public spaces or utilities can create legal liabilities. Many municipalities require homeowners to maintain clearance from sidewalks and electrical lines.

Safety tip:
Only certified arborists working with utility companies should trim near power lines. For example, one client in Franklin County faced city penalties after ignoring limbs that hung over a public sidewalk.

Storm and Weather Damage

Severe weather can turn healthy trees into hazards overnight. Windstorms, heavy snow, and lightning all leave lasting damage.

Types of weather-related hazards:

• Lightning strikes, causing internal burns
• Ice accumulation leading to branch breaks
• High winds are splitting trunks or uprooting entire trees

Risks:
A tree weakened by storms is unpredictable. Even if it remains standing,a  compromised structure may lead to delayed failure days or weeks later.

Local case:
After a severe ice storm, we were called to inspect a maple that looked intact but had multiple hidden fractures. Within two days, a major limb collapsed onto a driveway. Always schedule a post-storm tree assessment to catch hidden cracks or root upheaval.

Quick Reference Hazard Checklist

How Professional Assessments Help Prevent Hazards

A professional tree assessment involves more than a quick glance at branches. Arborists use systematic methods to examine the entire tree, from roots to crown.

Steps include:

1. Ground inspection of roots and soil
2. Trunk analysis for cracks, cavities, or fungal growth
3. Canopy evaluation for weak or crossing branches
4. Health check for pests and disease
5. Risk rating and recommendations

DIY assessments may miss critical signs of failure. Professionals bring years of experience, diagnostic tools, and knowledge of regional tree species.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tree hazards the same as normal tree maintenance?

No. Regular pruning improves tree shape and growth, but hazard management targets dangerous conditions like cracks, decay, or storm damage.

What are the most common signs of a dangerous tree?

Look for leaning trunks, large cracks, dead branches, or signs of disease such as fungus or insect holes.

How often should I schedule a tree assessment?

Most properties benefit from an annual inspection. High-risk areas near buildings, roads, or play areas may require more frequent checks.

Can I fix tree hazards on my own?

Minor issues like small dead branches can sometimes be handled by homeowners, but major hazards should always be addressed by professionals.

Does homeowners insurance cover tree hazards?

Coverage varies by policy. Some plans cover damage from fallen trees due to storms, while neglect-related failures may not be covered.

Who is responsible if my tree damages a neighbor’s property?

Generally, the property owner is responsible if negligence can be proven. Regular assessments help show preventive care and reduce liability.

The Bottom Line on Tree Hazard Assessments

Tree hazards are not always obvious, but they can have serious consequences if ignored. The five most common hazards we find during assessments are weak branches, root problems, diseases, proximity to structures, and storm damage. Each poses unique risks to people and property.

The best protection is regular professional assessments. At D’s Trees, our certified arborists have the expertise and equipment to identify hazards early and recommend solutions that balance safety with tree preservation. Don’t wait until a branch falls or a storm brings a tree down.

Call D’s Trees today to schedule your professional tree hazard assessment and protect your home in Pace and the surrounding areas.