Signs a Tree Might Be Unsafe—and What to Do Next

Your trees aren’t just part of your yard—they’re part of your home. They give you shade on hot summer days, add beauty to every season, and sometimes even create the perfect backdrop for your morning coffee. But just like people, trees can get sick, hurt, or weakened over time. And when that happens, they can turn from peaceful companions into potential hazards.

A falling tree or a heavy branch crashing onto your driveway isn’t just inconvenient—it can cause serious damage and even put people at risk. The upside? Most trees give us warning signs before things get dangerous. If you know what to look for, you can stop problems early and keep both your home and family safe.

1. Dead or Dying Branches

You know that one branch that looks lifeless, brittle, or leafless while the rest of the tree is thriving? That’s not just ugly—it’s a warning. Dead branches are unpredictable and can fall without notice, especially during strong winds or a storm.

What to do next:  If the branch is small, you might be able to safely prune it yourself. For bigger or higher branches, it’s best to call in a professional. Arborists, like the team at Kanata Tree Service Masters, can safely remove these hazards and check the tree for other hidden issues.

2. Cracks or Cavities in the Trunk

If you notice cracks, splits, or hollow areas in a trunk, take them seriously. These are signs the tree might be struggling with disease or decay, weakening its structure. Even a tree that looks healthy from the outside could be unstable.

Here’s the fix:  Have a certified arborist take a look. They can determine whether the tree can be saved with pruning or bracing—or if it’s safer to remove it before an accident happens.

3. Leaning Trees

A tree with a slight lean isn’t always dangerous, but a sudden or increasing lean is a red flag. Leaning often points to root instability, making the tree more likely to fall in heavy winds or snow.

What you should do:  Keep an eye on the lean and the soil around the tree. For safety, it’s wise to bring in a professional to assess whether the tree can be stabilized or should be removed.

4. Mushrooms or Fungi at the Base

Mushrooms or other fungal growth around a tree’s base aren’t just a little weird—they usually mean root rot. Your tree might look fine above ground, but below the surface, it could be weakening.

What to do:  Fungal infections don’t fix themselves. A professional arborist can inspect the tree, identify the extent of the damage, and recommend the safest solution.

5. Exposed or Damaged Roots

Roots that are sticking out of the ground, cracked, or otherwise damaged aren’t just unsightly—they can make your tree unstable. Roots anchor your tree and supply nutrients, so any damage can affect the entire tree.

How to handle it: Avoid trying to “fix” it yourself. A certified arborist can evaluate the roots, address soil issues, and determine the safest way to protect the tree—or remove it if necessary.

6. Storm Damage

Kanata’s weather can be unpredictable. After heavy winds, ice, or snow, you might look outside and think, “The tree’s fine.” But even if there’s no visible damage, the trunk or limbs could be weakened.

The solution: Don’t assume everything is okay. Call a professional to inspect the tree. Quick intervention can prevent future accidents and keep your property safe.

7. Unusual Leaf or Bark Changes

Trees communicate in subtle ways. Dropping leaves early, discolored foliage, or peeling bark may indicate disease, pests, or environmental stress.

Action to take: Watch the changes over time. If the problem continues or worsens, have a professional assess it. Early intervention can save the tree—or at least prevent it from becoming a hazard.

Keep Your Home Safe and Your Trees Healthy

Trees add beauty and comfort to your property, but unsafe trees are a risk you don’t want to ignore. The key is spotting the warning signs early and knowing when to call for help.

That’s where Kanata Tree Service Masters comes in. Our certified arborists can inspect, prune, or safely remove problem trees, so you can relax knowing your home and family are protected.

Don’t wait until a branch falls on its own. Call Kanata Tree Service Masters today for a professional safety check—and enjoy peace of mind with healthier, safer trees.