Signs to Notice That You Need to Hire Professionals for Tree Report
Trees look solid and permanent but they can hide serious problems. Knowing when to get a proper tree report done could prevent property damage, injuries, or even deaths. Here’s when you should stop guessing and call in the experts.
Visible Damage After Storms
Big storms hit and suddenly your tree’s got broken branches, split bark, or is leaning more than before. Don’t just assume it’s fine because it’s still standing. Internal damage might not be obvious but could make the whole thing dangerous. Professional assessments catch hidden structural issues before they become disasters.
Branches Hanging Over Buildings
Got massive branches looming over your house, shed, or neighbour’s property? If they look heavy or are showing signs of weakness, that’s a liability waiting to happen. Insurance companies sometimes require tree inspections for properties with large trees near structures. Better to know now than after one crashes through your roof.
Cracks in the Trunk
Any splits, cracks, or separations in the main trunk are serious red flags. These can indicate the tree’s structurally compromised and might split completely. Some cracks are superficial but others go deep. Only trained arborists can properly assess which is which and what risks exist.
Dead Branches Throughout
A few dead branches are normal but heaps of them throughout the canopy suggests the tree’s declining or diseased. Dead wood is unpredictable – branches can drop without warning. Kids playing underneath or cars parked nearby are at risk. Get it assessed before something falls on someone.
Leaning More Than Normal
Trees growing on slopes naturally lean a bit but sudden leaning or increasing angles are concerning. Means the root system might be failing or soil’s eroding. If you notice your tree’s noticeably more tilted than it was, that needs urgent professional attention.
Planning Building Work
About to build an extension, put in a pool, or do landscaping near trees? You’ll likely need a tree report for council approval anyway. But even if it’s not required, knowing which trees might be affected by construction helps avoid killing valuable trees or creating hazards.
Buying or Selling Property
Mature trees add value but dodgy ones are liabilities. If you’re selling, a tree arborist report shows potential buyers everything’s safe. If you’re buying, it reveals what you’re taking on. Nobody wants to fork out ten grand removing a dangerous tree right after settlement.
Insurance Requirements
Some insurance policies require regular tree assessments, especially for older properties with large established trees. Check your policy. Getting reports done keeps you compliant and means claims won’t get rejected because you neglected obvious hazards.
Just a Gut Feeling
Sometimes you just reckon something’s not right with a tree. Maybe it looks unhealthy, sounds hollow when knocked, or just seems off somehow. Trust that instinct. A professional tree report either confirms there’s a problem or gives you peace of mind that everything’s fine. Either way you know where you stand instead of worrying.
