Is Your Tree a Safety Hazard? Warning Signs & Next Steps for Florida Homeowners

A healthy tree adds beauty, shade, and value to your property. A failing tree, on the other hand, can drop limbs on cars, snap power lines, or topple onto your roof during a storm. Knowing the early warning signs—and acting quickly—can save thousands in damage and keep your family safe.

Red-Flag Symptoms of a Hazardous Tree

• Dead or Hanging Branches
  Branches with no leaves during the growing season—or brittle limbs dangling in the crown—can fall without warning.
• Large Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
  Vertical fissures, spiral cracks, or deep cavities weaken structural integrity. If you can fit a finger into the crack, call an ISA-certified arborist fast.
• Decay, Mushrooms & Soft Wood
  Fungal conks (mushrooms) at the base or on the trunk signal internal rot. Soft, spongy bark is another decay indicator.
• Root Problems
  Uplifted soil, exposed roots, or sudden leaning after heavy rain suggest root plate failure. Trees with severed roots due to construction are equally at risk.
• Sudden Lean or Soil Heaving
  Any new lean—especially greater than 15°—is cause for an emergency evaluation. Look for mounded soil on one side of the trunk.
• Wilting, Discolored, or Sparse Leaves
  A thinning canopy, yellowing leaves, or premature leaf drop may indicate disease or vascular blockage.

High-Risk Locations to Watch

The closer a compromised tree is to people or structures, the higher the hazard level:

• Overhanging roofs, patios, or play areas
• Adjacent to driveways and sidewalks
• Near power lines or pool enclosures
• Along hurricane wind corridors (open yards, lakefronts)

DIY Checklist vs. Professional Assessment

While homeowners can spot surface issues, only a qualified arborist can perform a full risk assessment, which may include:

1. Sounding the trunk with a mallet to gauge hollowness
2. Resistograph drilling or tomography to measure internal decay
3. Root collar excavation to inspect below-grade decay
4. Load and failure probability calculations (per ISA TRAQ standards)

Mid Florida Tree Care’s ISA-certified arborists provide written reports, photos, and mitigation recommendations—often required by insurance companies and city permit offices.

Mitigation Options

• Crown Reduction or Dead-wooding – remove hazardous limbs only.
• Cabling & Bracing – install steel hardware to support weak unions.
• Root-zone Therapy – aeration, mulching, and fertilisation to boost vigor.
• Full Removal & Stump Grinding – safest choice when decay or lean is advanced. Learn about our removal process »

When to Call an Emergency Crew

If the tree is actively splitting, leaning after a storm, or dropping limbs, reach our 24/7 emergency tree service. We can secure the area, remove immediate hazards, and prevent collateral damage.

Protect Your Home—Book a Safety Inspection

Unsure about a suspicious tree? Mid Florida Tree Care offers no-obligation inspections across Orlando, Lake Mary, Winter Garden and all surrounding communities. Call 407-687-2334 or request an estimate online and gain peace of mind before the next storm rolls in.