Signs Your Tree Might Fall: What to Look For

Most trees that fail give warning signs first — if you know what to look for. On the wind-exposed, sloped lots common across Port Moody and the Tri-Cities, catching these early can prevent serious property damage or injury. Here are the red flags.

A lean — especially a new one

A tree that has always leaned slightly may be fine. A tree that has recently started leaning, or whose lean is increasing, is a serious concern — particularly if you also see soil heaving or cracking on the side opposite the lean. That combination suggests the root plate is lifting.

Root and base problems

• Mushrooms or shelf fungus (conks) at the base or on surface roots — a sign of root decay.
• Heaving, mounding, or cracked soil around the base.
• Roots that were recently cut or paved over (decks, driveways, construction) — this quietly destabilizes a tree for years.

Trunk warning signs

Look for deep vertical cracks, open cavities or hollows, large areas of dead or missing bark, and "included bark" where two stems meet in a tight V — a weak union that can split. A trunk that sounds hollow when tapped may have significant internal decay even if the outside looks solid.

Canopy clues

A lot of deadwood, large bare branches, or a thinning crown means the tree is under stress and dropping its weakest parts first. Dead limbs over a driveway, walkway, or play area should be dealt with regardless of the rest of the tree.

Site and history

Recent construction, grade changes, or a newly exposed tree (for example after neighbouring trees were removed) all raise the risk, because the tree hasn't grown to withstand its new wind exposure. Saturated winter soil makes all of the above more dangerous.

What to do if you see these signs

One sign isn't always cause for alarm — but several together, or any of them on a tree within striking distance of your house, warrant a professional look. A certified arborist can perform a risk assessment and tell you whether the tree can be retained, needs pruning, or should come down. Get an arborist report, learn about tree removal in Port Moody, or — if a tree poses an immediate danger — call our emergency tree service right away. For a non-urgent assessment, request a free estimate.