How to Spot a Dangerous Tree on Your Property
A tree may appear strong and healthy at first glance, but hidden risks can turn it into a serious hazard. In Calgary—where sudden storms, heavy snowfalls, and chinook winds are common—knowing the signs of a dangerous tree can help protect your property, your family, and your neighbors.
While some risks are obvious, others remain hidden until it’s too late. That’s why professional inspections, such as a Tree Risk Assessment, are so important. With early detection and proper care, many problems can be resolved before they turn into costly emergencies.
Common Warning Signs of Hazardous Trees
Homeowners should keep an eye out for visible red flags that suggest a tree may be unsafe:
Cracks in the Trunk – Large, vertical cracks can indicate structural weakness, increasing the risk of splitting.
Large Dead Branches – Deadwood is brittle and prone to falling without warning, especially during storms.
Branches Over Roofs or Power Lines – Overhanging limbs pose a risk to buildings, vehicles, and utilities.
Leaning Trees – A sudden lean, or one that’s worsened over time, may signal root instability.
Mushrooms or Fungal Growth at the Base – Often indicates internal decay in the trunk or roots.
Peeling Bark or Cavities – Can be signs of disease, pest infestation, or rot.
Split or Hanging Limbs After Storms – Calgary’s high winds and heavy snow can create dangerous breakage that isn’t always obvious from the ground.
These signs don’t always mean a tree must be removed, but they do mean it needs professional evaluation.
Hidden Risks: What Homeowners Can’t See
Not all hazards are visible. Trees can suffer from internal decay, root rot, or structural flaws long before symptoms show on the outside. A tree that looks lush and green may still be compromised.
In Calgary’s urban environment, trees face added stresses such as compacted soils, construction damage, and limited root space. These conditions often weaken trees internally, creating risks that only a trained professional can detect.
Why a Tree Risk Assessment Matters
The safest way to determine whether a tree poses a danger is through a Tree Risk Assessment performed by a Certified Arborist with Tree Risk Assessment Qualification (TRAQ).
A TRAQ assessment is a science-based evaluation that examines:
The tree’s overall health and structure.
Root stability and soil conditions.
Likelihood of failure (whether a branch or trunk may break).
Consequences of failure (what the tree might hit if it falls).
Based on these factors, the arborist provides recommendations to:
Retain – Keep the tree if risks are minimal.
Mitigate – Reduce risks with pruning, cabling, bracing, or treatments.
Remove – Safely remove the tree if risks are too great.
This structured process removes the guesswork and gives homeowners peace of mind.
The Cost of Ignoring Tree Hazards
Waiting until a storm reveals a problem is far more expensive than addressing risks early. Consider the costs:
Emergency Removals – Responding to fallen trees after a storm can cost thousands of dollars, often more than preventive care.
Property Damage – A single large branch can destroy a roof, fence, or vehicle.
Liability Issues – If a hazardous tree on your property damages a neighbor’s home, you could be held responsible.
Lost Value – A tree that could have been preserved may need to be removed entirely if left untreated.
Proactive inspections and maintenance save money, reduce risks, and preserve valuable trees.
Why DIY Isn’t the Answer
It may be tempting to grab a ladder and chainsaw, but DIY tree work is extremely risky. Many hazards—like branches under tension—are unpredictable and can cause severe injuries. Chainsaw accidents, ladder falls, and contact with power lines send thousands of people to the emergency room every year.
Professional arborists have the training, equipment, and insurance to handle hazardous trees safely. Attempting the job yourself may not only put you in danger but also make the problem worse.
The Role of ISA Certified Arborists
Hiring an ISA Certified Arborist ensures that any inspection or tree work meets international standards for safety and tree health. Certified professionals:
Understand Calgary’s unique climate challenges.
Carry liability insurance and workers’ compensation, protecting homeowners.
Use advanced tools to detect decay and measure structural integrity.
Follow ethical guidelines, recommending removal only when necessary.
Offer long-term solutions such as pruning, cabling, or soil care to extend tree life when possible.
This level of expertise gives homeowners confidence that decisions are made in the best interest of safety, health, and property value.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait for a Storm
Calgary’s weather is unpredictable, and hazardous trees can quickly become emergencies. Identifying risks early not only protects your property but also saves money and preserves valuable trees.
If you notice cracks, dead branches, leaning, or fungal growth—or if you simply want peace of mind—schedule a Tree Risk Assessment with a Certified Arborist. With professional guidance, you’ll know exactly where your risks stand and how to address them.
Don’t wait until a storm turns a questionable tree into a costly emergency. Act early, and protect both your home and Calgary’s urban forest.
