If you’re starting to wonder whether one of your trees is more risk than benefit, it helps to know what to look for. Some warning signs are easy to miss until the damage is already done. Others are more obvious but still need a trained eye to confirm whether removal is necessary. Here are some tree removal signs to know before you decide to take down a tree.
The Tree Is Leaning
Most trees don’t grow in a perfectly straight line, so a slight lean isn’t always a problem. But if your tree has started to lean more than usual or developed a sudden tilt after a storm, it’s time for a closer look. The roots may no longer be stable, which makes the entire tree vulnerable to falling.
This is especially important if the tree is close to your home, driveway, sidewalk, or utility lines. Any significant lean paired with cracked soil or exposed roots is one of the most serious tree removal signs we deal with.
Large Dead Branches Keep Appearing
A few small dead limbs aren’t uncommon, but if you’re seeing several large, lifeless branches—or they’re dropping frequently—it’s a sign the tree is under stress. These branches can fall without warning, especially in high winds or heavy snow.
If we inspect the tree and determine that trimming won’t solve the problem, removal is likely the safer option. Large dead branches can also be a sign of internal decay or root failure, which makes the situation more urgent.
You’re Seeing Fungal Growth
Fungi at the base of the tree or around the roots are often a sign of internal rot. It’s common to see mushrooms or spongy-looking growths. While not every case of fungus means removal is necessary, it does mean the tree needs to be evaluated.
Fungal infections can weaken a tree from the inside and put nearby healthy trees at risk. When that happens, removal may be the best way to protect your property. We always aim to treat trees when possible, but in advanced cases, there’s usually no recovery.
There’s Damage to the Roots
Root damage can happen for a number of reasons—construction, soil compaction, lawn equipment, or extended drought. You may notice cracked ground, heaving around the base, or roots that appear mushy or exposed.
These are all signs the tree is no longer getting the support it needs underground.
When root damage compromises the tree’s stability, it becomes a safety issue. If we confirm the roots are decaying or structurally unsound, removal is often the only practical solution. It’s not a decision we take lightly, but ignoring root damage can lead to more serious consequences later on.
The Trunk Is Cracked or Hollow
A tree’s trunk supports everything above it. If there are vertical cracks, large wounds, peeling bark, or visible cavities, the structure may already be compromised. This is especially concerning if the damage runs deep or involves more than one section of the tree.
Sometimes, the tree still looks fine from a distance, but inside, it’s failing. That’s why we recommend having these signs professionally inspected. Structural damage is one of the clearest tree removal signs we look for.
It’s Not Safe Where It’s Growing
Even a healthy tree can become a hazard if it’s too close to your house or another structure. Trees that grow too close to the foundation, driveway, or siding can cause long-term damage.
In some cases, the roots interfere with pipes or underground lines. In others, branches start scraping against roofs or windows. If a tree was planted in the wrong place or has simply outgrown its space, it may need to be removed.
We’ll assess whether it can be safely trimmed back or if removal is the better option. Either way, we’ll help you avoid future problems with the structure of your home or business.
The Tree Took Storm Damage
Storms don’t always knock down a tree completely—but that doesn’t mean there’s no damage. After strong winds, heavy snow, or ice buildup, trees can develop cracks, split limbs, or lose structural balance.
Even if nothing has fallen yet, there may be unseen damage that weakens the tree long-term. Our team handles storm-related calls regularly, and we’re fully equipped to deal with emergency situations.
If a storm hits and your tree looks different—whether it’s leaning, cracked, or missing major limbs—call us. We’ll check it out and determine whether it can be stabilized or needs to come down.
We provide emergency tree services throughout West Chester, Malvern, Downingtown, Glen Mills, and nearby areas.
You’re Seeing Signs of Infestation
Insect damage can be easy to miss until it’s advanced. If your tree has small exit holes, bark peeling away, or visible larvae, there may be an infestation at work. Some insects attack only dead wood, but others—like the emerald ash borer—can wipe out healthy trees fast.
Infested trees often show other signs like thinning leaves, stunted growth, or discolored bark. We’ll let you know whether treatment is still possible or whether removing the tree is the best way to stop the spread.
It’s Already Dead
A dead tree doesn’t bounce back. It may still be standing, but without leaves, buds, or flexible branches, it’s no longer alive. Dead trees become unstable quickly, and the longer they’re left standing, the higher the chance they’ll fall or break apart.
Dead tree risks include falling limbs, property damage, and injury. If your tree hasn’t shown signs of life for a full growing season, we strongly recommend scheduling a removal. Keeping a dead tree in place is a serious safety concern.
You’re Still Not Sure
We hear this one often: the tree doesn’t look right, but it’s hard to tell what’s going on. That’s where we come in. We’ve been doing this for over a decade, and we know how to spot the early signs that others might miss.
If you think something’s off—or you’re dealing with one of the concerns above—it’s a good time to schedule an inspection. We’ll walk you through your options and only recommend removal when it’s truly necessary.
Schedule Our Tree Removal Service Today
If you’ve spotted one or more of these tree removal signs or you’re still unsure, we’re here to help. We invite you to contact us directly at AC Tree Experts to schedule your free estimate and our tree removal service. We’ll make sure you have the right information to protect your home, yard, and peace of mind.