During the busy summer months, frequent storms can take a toll on the trees near your home before you even realize what is happening. Trees can enhance your property value with shade, beauty, and a peaceful, natural environment, but they can also be a danger to you and your house when they are damaged, sick, or unstable. With years of experience in insurance claims, Staples & Associates has some top warning signs that a tree may fall on your property. 

How to Tell if a Tree Might Be at Risk of Falling

1. Cracks in the Trunk: Some instances of cracks in the tree trunk, especially ribbed cracks, can indicate structural instability. 
2. Falling Branches: A rise in the number of limbs on the ground could suggest the tree is lacking nutrients or dealing with a pest infestation.
3. Barkless Areas: If the outer coating of bark is deteriorating, it may be an indication that the tree is dead or dying. 
4. Missing Leaves Near the Trunk: If leaves stop growing on the lower branches, this could suggest an issue affecting the root zone.
5. Exposed Roots: While not necessarily a negative sign on their own, they can be susceptible to damage from landscaping equipment, potentially affecting the tree’s stability.
6. Soft Spots: Soft spots may indicate a fungal or pest infestation, which could affect stability. 
7. Vines Covering the Tree: Vines can quickly engulf a tree and cause it to retain moisture leading to fungal or bacterial infections. 
8. Hollow or Decayed Areas: These may result from internal decay and are often caused by improper pruning.
9. Mushrooms or Fungi Growing at the Base of the Tree: This can indicate that the roots are decaying.
10. Noticeable Leaning: This could be due to wind or root damage and might require removal. However, some trees naturally grow at an angle without posing a risk.

What to Do When You Have a Dead Tree in Your Yard

Safety is paramount around a dead or sick tree that is at risk of falling, especially around power lines or other structures. The removal plan will vary based on the type of tree, its size, and location. For larger trees in complicated positions, or near power lines, it’s best to consult a professional tree-felling or landscaping company. Once the tree is down, you’ll need to determine what to do with the yard waste, the stump, and any damage or holes in the yard that could become hazardous. 

If you’re unsure about what your home insurance will cover in various scenarios, contact Staples & Associates for a full policy review.