How to Spot a Dangerous Tree Before It Falls
If you’ve ever looked at a big tree in your yard and thought, “Is that thing safe?” — you’re not alone. Trees can live for decades without issue, but when they start to decline, they don’t always make it obvious. That’s why knowing how to spot a dangerous tree can save you from serious property damage — or worse.
Here are the top warning signs to watch for, and what to do if something looks off.
1. It’s Leaning… and Not on Purpose
A tree that naturally leans a bit might be totally fine. But if a tree starts leaning suddenly, or the angle increases over time, that’s a red flag. Especially if the soil around the base looks cracked or raised on one side — that’s a sign the roots might be pulling out of the ground.
✅ What to do: Have it inspected right away. A leaning tree can be extremely unstable and may need to be removed quickly.
2. Large Dead Limbs
Dead limbs don’t just fall during storms — they can drop without warning on a calm, sunny day. If you see large branches with no leaves (especially in spring or summer), that’s a sign the tree is under stress or dying in sections.
✅ What to do: Prune dead limbs before they become a hazard. If more than 25% of the canopy is dead, the whole tree may be compromised.
3. Cracks and Splits in the Trunk
A vertical crack in the trunk can signal internal decay, especially if it runs deep or you notice bugs or fungus growing inside it. Trees with double trunks or large splits where limbs connect are especially vulnerable.
✅ What to do: Don’t ignore trunk cracks. These trees are often weakened structurally and should be evaluated by a certified arborist.
4. Fungus at the Base
Mushrooms growing around the base of a tree may look harmless, but they can indicate internal rot. Fungi feed on dead or decaying wood — and if they’re growing near the roots or lower trunk, the tree could be hollowing from the inside out.
✅ What to do: Schedule a professional inspection. Trees with internal decay are prone to sudden collapse.
5. Sudden Loss of Leaves or Bark
If your tree drops its leaves early in the season, or you notice sections of bark peeling off, it could be stressed from disease, drought, or root damage. Healthy trees hold their bark tightly and keep leaves through most of the growing season.
✅ What to do: Track any sudden changes and call for an evaluation if it doesn’t improve within a few weeks.
Bonus: Look Up and Around
Are there power lines nearby?
Is the tree overhanging your house, driveway, or play area?
Has there been recent construction, trenching, or soil compaction near the roots?
These added risk factors make it even more important to get regular checkups for your trees.
Trees don’t always give you loud warnings before they fall. But by learning what to look for — from leaning trunks to mushroom growth — you can stay ahead of the danger and protect your home.
If you’re unsure about a tree on your property, don’t wait until it’s too late. Flying Squirrel Tree Trimming offers free, no-pressure consultations. We’ll walk your yard, assess each tree, and give you honest advice about what’s safe — and what’s not.