Recognizing

Tree Risk
Learn to identify common tree defects that may indicate tree risk and
understand how tree risk can be managed.

Trees are an important part of our world and offer a wide Tree Risk Checklist
range of benefits. However, trees can also be liabilities.
While there is no such thing as a completely safe tree, Consider these questions when assessing a tree:
the benefits of trees far outweigh the risks. All tree have
the potential to fall, but only a small number actually hit • Are there large dead branches?
something or someone.
• Are there detached, hanging branches?
By understanding and addressing the risks associated with
trees, you can make your property safer and prolong the • Have any branches fallen from the tree?
lives of your trees.
• Is there loose bark on the trunk?
It is a tree owner’s responsibility to ensure the safety of
others when around trees on their property. This brochure • Are there cracks or splits in the trunk or where branches
provides some tips for identifying and managing common are attached?
defects associated with tree risk. However, evaluating the
seriousness of these defects is best done by a professional • Has the trunk developed unusually?
arborist. Regular tree care performed by an ISA Certified
Arborist® will provide an opportunity to identify trees that • Are there cavities or rotten wood along the trunk or in
have defects and unacceptable risk levels. Once the risk is major branches?
identified, steps may be taken to reduce the likelihood of an
incident or damage. • Are mushrooms present at the base of or under the tree?

• Has the area recently been altered by construction,

changes in soil level, or installations of lawns or pavement?

• Have the leaves developed an unusual yellow color or do

they seem smaller in size?

• Has the tree been topped or heavily pruned?

Trees and Utility Lines

Additional consequences can result from trees that fall
onto utility lines. Not only can these trees injure people or
property near the lines, but they can also hit a conductor and
cause power outages or surges, fires, and other damage.

A tree with potential to fall into a utility line presents a very

serious situation. Never attempt to remove branches or
any tree part from or near power lines, and never go near
downed power lines! These lines are especially dangerous,
as they could still be conducting electricity. If you see tree
parts in contact with utility lines, call your local electricity
provider.
Defects in Urban Trees F: External signs of decay:
Asymmetric shapes may be caused by the tree’s formation
The following are defects or signs of possible defects in of reaction wood and may be an indication of an internal
urban trees (see figure): problem. Other, more obvious signs of decay include the
presence of fungal fruiting bodies and cavities.
A: Poor taper:
Branches or stems with their weight concentrated near the G: Dead branches:
end are more prone to failure. Dead branches within the canopy of a tree are probably the
most obvious potential hazards. The risk of damage or injury
B: Root failure: depends on the size of the dead branch and distance from
Cracks or separations in the soil may indicate soil heaving any potential targets.
from excessive movement of the roots. This can be a
warning sign for failure, especially if the tree is leaning. H: Human-caused defects:
Wounds, weak or damaged limbs, root loss, and decay
C: Codominant stems (split trunk): may be the result of construction, grade changes, soil
Can often be failure points. Multiple branch attachments at compaction, poor pruning, or other misguided practices.
one point on a stem can also be considered a defect.

D: Externally visible defects: Ensuring Quality Care

Includes cankers and wounds. Each could be minor or the Trees are assets to your home and the community, and they
start of a significant problem; further investigation may be deserve the best possible care. If you answered “yes” to any
warranted. of the questions in the tree risk checklist onthe previous
page or see any of the defects depicted in this brochure,
E: Cracks or splits: your tree should be examined by an ISA Certified Arborist.
Watch for longitudinal cracks or splits on the trunk, major
branches, or branch unions.
Managing Tree Risk
An ISA Certified Arborist can help homeowners manage What Is a Certified Arborist?
trees and provide treatments that may help reduce the risk
ISA Certified Arborists® are individuals who have
associated with certain trees.
proven a level of knowledge in the art and science
of tree care through experience and by passing a
An arborist familiar with tree risk assessment may suggest
comprehensive examination developed by some of
one or more of the following:
the nation’s leading experts on tree care.
ISA Certified Arborists must also continue their
• Prune the tree and remove the defective branches.
education to maintain their certification. Therefore,
Inappropriate pruning may weaken the tree. Pruning work
they are more likely to be up to date on the latest
is best done by an ISA Certified Arborist.
techniques in arboriculture.
• Cable and brace the tree. Provide physical support for
weak branches and stems to increase their strength and Finding an Arborist
stability. Such supports are not guarantees against failure. Visit [Link] for free tools:
• Provide routine care. Mature trees need routine care • The “Find an Arborist” tool can help you locate an
in the form of water, nutrients (in some cases), mulch, arborist in your area.
pruning, and, in some cases, nutrients, as dictated by their
structure and the season. • The “Verify a Credential” tool enables you to
confirm whether an arborist has an ISA credential.
• Remove the tree. Some trees with unacceptable levels of
risk are best removed. If possible, plant an appropriate
new tree as a replacement. Be an Informed Consumer
One of the best methods to use in choosing an
Recognizing and reducing tree risk not only increases the arborist is to educate yourself about some of the
safety of your property and that of your neighbors, but also basic principles of tree care. Visit [Link]
improves trees’ health and may increase their longevity. to read and download all brochures in this series.

[Link] • [Link]

©2021 International Society of Arboriculture. (v02.2021)

Through research, technology, and education, the International Society of
Arboriculture promotes the professional practice of arboriculture and fosters
a greater worldwide awareness of the benefits of trees.