Not every tree needs to come down — but some do, and waiting too long is how a $500 removal turns into an emergency call after a storm. I've been assessing trees across NW Ohio and SE Michigan for over 20 years, and these are the warning signs I tell every homeowner to watch for.
1. A Significant Lean That's New or Getting Worse
Some trees naturally grow with a slight lean and it's nothing to worry about. But a lean that's recent, or that's visibly gotten worse, especially after a storm or heavy rain, often means the root system has been compromised. That's a tree that can come down on its own timeline, not yours.
2. Dead or Missing Bark, and Fungus at the Base
Large patches of missing bark, or mushrooms and fungus growing at the base of the trunk or on major roots, are strong signs of internal decay. A tree can look fine from a distance and still be rotting from the inside — the base is where that usually shows first.
3. Deep Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
A vertical crack running any real length up the trunk is a structural red flag. It means the tree's ability to hold itself together under wind load is compromised, and it can fail without much warning.
4. Hollow Sound or Visible Cavities
If you knock on the trunk and it sounds hollow, or there's a visible cavity, the tree has significantly less structural wood than it needs. Hollow trees can look perfectly healthy in the canopy while being one strong wind away from failure.
5. Dead Branches Throughout the Canopy
A few dead branches here and there is normal tree maintenance — that's a trim, not a removal. But widespread dieback throughout the canopy, especially on a tree that used to be full, usually means the tree is stressed or dying and its structural integrity is going down with it.
⚠️ If a tree is leaning toward your house, garage, or a power line and showing any of these signs, don't wait for a storm to make the decision for you. Get it looked at.
When It's Trimming, Not Removal
Not everything on this list means the whole tree has to go. Sometimes it's one compromised limb, and trimming that back solves the problem and saves the tree. I always give you the honest answer — I'd rather trim a tree that can be saved than remove one that didn't need to come down. Read more on when you need removal vs. trimming.
Not Sure If It Needs to Come Down?
Send me a photo or have me take a look. I'll give you an honest assessment — not just an upsell. Free, always.
📞 Call or Text 419-283-1049Areas I Serve
I assess and remove hazardous trees across Toledo, Maumee, Perrysburg, Sylvania, Oregon, and all of NW Ohio & SE Michigan.
Worried about a tree on your property? Call or text 419-283-1049 and I'll take a look.