Cole Harris
If you believe a tree has become a hazard for you and your family, you should not try to remove it by yourself. Tree removal is a difficult and dangerous thing to do. The best way to do it is by hiring a local tree service.
If the tree has become unsafe after a storm you can contact the SES and ask them to get the tree down to a safe level. After that you will need to get a local company to finish the job.
A professional arborist is trained to remove trees in the safest, most effective way possible. He knows the right way to do it and has the right equipment for the job. An arborist can also evaluate and take proper care of any other tree you may have in your property.
Inexperienced tree removal can lead to severe problems and unexpected injuries, it should not be tried no matter the problem. In case of an emergency, contact an arborist and explain the urgency of the situation.
How much does an arborist cost?
There are no exact rates when it comes to tree removal. The price range may widely vary according to the circumstances. When you contact an arborist, he will ask how big the tree is, how dangerous you think it is, if it is an emergency and if you need one or more trees removed to give you an estimated price.
According to several sources, the price range normally is between $350 and $4500. On average, removing one tree is worth $870. But remember, the price might vary according to your circumstances.
Even though it might seem a little bit expensive, remember you are not only paying for a tree removal service but future safety as well.
How can you tell if a tree is dangerous?
There are multiple signs to take into account to check whether a tree is dangerous or not. The most important ones are:
-Leaning: If a tree is leaning to the side, it might be a sign of a dangerous tree. Especially if the tree is leaning to the side contrary to where the wind blows. If it’s constantly leaning more and more to the side, then it’s a sure sign of a hazard.
-Dead branches: If your tree has dead branches on it or fallen around it, this might be the sign of a dying tree. This means the tree will eventually turn itself into a dangerous situation.
-Fungus: If you see a sign of fungus it means the tree is dying or decaying. This leaves the tree in a dangerous place as it just a matter of time until it falls over.
-Exposed roots: Exposed roots are somewhat normal. But if the large roots (called anchoring roots) are exposed and lifting up, your tree might be uprooting. If this is happening, you probably are in an emergency scenario.
-Two trunks: Sometimes trees may split in two and form a “U” or “V” shape leaving to trunks growing apart. If this is happening consider yourself in an emergency situation, as this type of tree eventually falls over.
How to report a dangerous tree?
If you find yourself in a dangerous tree situation do not hesitate and call a professional arborist. Explain to him the signs of decay your tree seems to have and ask him how to proceed. You should also ask him about any rules or regulations you might need to know about or permits you might need when dealing with trees.
If you find yourself in an emergency scenario, do not let this go uncommunicated, explain your situation diligently to the arborist.
Will council cut down a dangerous tree for free?
Whether your council will cut down a tree for free or not is up to the laws and regulations of your city. But the most likely answer is they are not going to pay for it if it’s in your property. Regardless, the best way to fix this issue is to contact a professional arborist that you trust and pay him for a valuable service.
Who is responsible for damage if a tree falls?
The owner of the tree is always responsible for it. If you have a tree in your property and you negligently let it fall damaging someone else’s property, you are more likely than not responsible for the damages. If it’s a public tree (i.e. trees on a park or planted on a sidewalk) it’s the state’s responsibility.
Will homeowners insurance cover damage?
It depends on your homeowners insurance policy. But most standard homeowners insurances will cover tree-related damage.
