7 Signs a Tree Is Dangerous and Should Come Down

On the Cape Fear coast, the question every hurricane season is the same: is that tree a hazard, or would it have been fine? Removing a healthy tree wastes money and shade; leaving a dangerous one can cost you a roof. Here's how the pros tell the difference.

1. A sudden new lean

Trees that have always leaned are usually fine. A tree that recently started leaning — especially with soil heaving or roots lifting on the opposite side — is failing at the root and is a serious hazard.

2. Large dead limbs or a dead crown

Dead wood over a house, driveway, or walkway is the most common cause of storm damage. Sometimes the fix is pruning, not removal.

3. Fungus or mushrooms at the base

Conks and mushrooms on the trunk or roots often signal internal rot. A tree can look full and green up top while it's hollow at the base.

4. Cracks or a split trunk

Deep cracks or co-dominant stems with a tight V-shaped union like to split in high wind — a when-not-if problem in coastal storms.

5. Roots near the foundation

Sometimes removal is about protecting your home's structure, not the tree's health. Large roots under a slab or foundation warrant a professional look.

6. Heavy storm damage

A tree that lost a major limb or half its canopy in a storm is often destabilized even if it's still standing. Have it assessed before the next system rolls in.

7. It's simply too close to the house

Even a healthy tree overhanging the roof is a liability in hurricane country. Trimming may be enough; sometimes removal is the safer call.

For pricing, see our cost guide. For storm season, read storm damage tree removal.