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What are the warning signs that a tree is a safety threat to my home?

Roy’s Trees • 26 March 2025
A man is climbing a tree on a trailer in front of a house.

When large trees become a safety hazard, they need immediate attention. A tree that threatens your home can cause significant damage if it falls or drops heavy limbs. Homeowners should regularly inspect their trees for warning signs of instability. At Roy’s Trees, our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are four indications that a tree may pose a danger to your home.


Leaning Toward Your House

A tree that is naturally leaning away from structures may not be a problem, but if it is leaning toward your home, it could be a serious risk. A sudden lean or one that appears to be worsening over time can indicate structural instability or root damage. Heavy winds, soil erosion, or internal decay can make a leaning tree more likely to fall, potentially damaging your home.


Large, Dead, or Falling Branches

A tree with large dead branches or limbs that frequently fall is a warning sign of poor health. These branches can break off unexpectedly, especially during storms or high winds. If branches extend over your home, they pose an even greater risk. A falling limb can damage your roof, break windows, or cause injury to anyone underneath. Regular pruning can help, but a tree with extensive dead wood may need removal.


Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Visible cracks or deep splits in the trunk can indicate structural weakness. If a tree’s trunk has significant damage, it may not be able to support its own weight, increasing the chance of collapse. Multiple cracks, particularly those that extend deep into the wood, should be evaluated by an arborist. Ignoring these warning signs could lead to the tree splitting or toppling over unexpectedly.


Weak or Exposed Roots

A tree’s root system is essential for stability, and any damage to the roots can make it prone to falling. If roots are visibly decayed, lifting out of the ground, or damaged by construction, the tree may be at risk of toppling. Trees with a shallow root system are particularly vulnerable to being uprooted during storms.


Tree Removal in Phoenix, AZ

For tree removal in Phoenix and the surrounding area, contact Roy’s Trees at  602-881-2775. Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in greater Phoenix!

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