Trees can often cope with minor damage and the changing seasons without intervention, but some problems need expert attention. You should contact a professional tree surgeon if a tree has large dead branches, is suddenly leaning, has visible decay, has been damaged during a storm, excessive growth or unexplained changes in its health.
A qualified tree specialist can assess the cause, identify safety risks and recommend the most appropriate work.
Here are nine common signs that it may be time to bring in a professional.
1. Are there large dead or broken branches?
Dead, cracked or hanging branches can fail without much warning, particularly during high winds. This is especially concerning if it’s above a house, driveway, road, footpath or frequently used area.
A professional tree surgeon can determine whether deadwood removal, targeted tree pruning or more extensive work is required, reducing risk while retaining healthy growth where possible.
2. The tree has started leaning
Not every tree that leans is dangerous. Some grow at an angle and remain stable for decades. A new or increasing lean, however, can indicate root or structural problems.
Look for lifted soil, exposed roots or cracks around the base, especially after strong winds. If the lean has appeared suddenly, arrange a professional tree assessment.
3. Can you see fungi, cavities or decay?
Fungal growth, cavities, soft wood and visible decay can indicate that a tree’s internal structure has been compromised. The extent of the problem is not always clear from the outside.
At Naturally Trees, our arboricultural consultancy services include the condition of the tree and safety surveys and specialist decay investigations using Resistograph testing and sonic tomography when a visual inspection alone is not enough.
4. Branches are getting too close to buildings
Trees growing close to roofs, windows, gutters, roads or other structures may require careful management. Overextended branches can also become more vulnerable to damage.
Professional tree pruning can manage the canopy without unnecessarily removing the tree. Depending on its species, condition and location, options may include reducing, lifting or thinning the crown.
5. Your tree has been damaged by a storm
Strong winds can split branches, damage unions and destabilise trees. Some defects are immediately visible, while others may be high in the crown.
After significant storm damage, avoid climbing the tree or attempting to remove large branches yourself. A qualified tree surgeon has the training and equipment to assess the damage and recommend safe remedial work.
6. The roots look damaged or unstable
Healthy roots are essential to tree stability. Construction, excavation, soil compaction and changes around the base can all affect the rooting environment.
Visible damage to the roots does not automatically mean the tree must be removed. An arborist or arboricultural consultant can assess the tree as a whole before recommending management, monitoring or tree removal.
7. Is the tree becoming too large for its location?
A mature tree can be healthy but still become unsuitable for its surroundings. Its canopy may block access, dominate a small garden or create clearance problems over roads and paths.
Professional tree care considers the species, growth pattern and long-term response to pruning. Correct crown reduction or reshaping can often manage size while maintaining a balanced canopy.
8. The tree’s health has changed unexpectedly
Unusual loss of leaves, sparse foliage, dying branches, discolouration or a decline in vigour can suggest a tree health problem. Causes may include disease, pests, environmental stress, root disturbance or structural issues.
Because different problems can produce similar symptoms, diagnosis matters. A survey of the tree’s condition can identify defects and provide practical recommendations rather than relying on guesswork.
9. You’re considering removing a major tree
Removing a tree entirely is sometimes necessary because of condition, location or safety, but large trees can be technically difficult to dismantle where buildings, gardens or other targets are nearby.
At Naturally Trees, we aim to preserve trees where practical, while carrying out safe tree felling and sectional dismantling where removal is necessary. We also provide pruning, planting, stump and hedge work, site clearance, tree surveys and arboricultural consultancy.
When should you call a professional tree surgeon?
If you are concerned about the safety, condition or size of a tree, getting professional advice early can prevent a manageable issue from becoming a larger problem. Seek more urgent advice if a tree or branch appears unstable, has suffered significant storm damage or could fall onto people, property or a public area.
At Naturally Trees, we provide professional tree surgery and consultancy for private and commercial clients across Berkshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Hampshire.
With more than 20 years of arboricultural experience, our team offers practical tree care alongside specialist consultancy. We are also an ARB Approved Contractor, reflecting our commitment to professional standards, safety and quality.
If something about a tree does not look right, you do not need to diagnose it yourself. Contact Naturally Trees to arrange expert advice from a professional tree surgeon.
