How to Tell If a Tree on Your Property Is a Safety Hazard in Farmington, CT

May 10, 2025

How to Tell If a Tree on Your Property Is a Safety Hazard in Farmington, CT

"More than 100 people are killed each year in the U.S. by falling trees or branches." That stat isn’t here to scare you—but it is a reminder. Trees are beautiful, but they’re also powerful. And when they’re neglected or in decline, they can go from an asset to a liability fast.

If you're a homeowner in Farmington, CT, and you're not sure if that towering oak or aging maple in your yard is safe, it's time to pay closer attention. Let’s walk through the signs of a hazardous tree and what you should do about it before the next storm rolls through.

1. Visible Leaning or Sudden Shifts

A slight natural lean isn’t always a cause for concern. But if your tree starts tilting more than usual—especially after heavy rain or wind—it's a red flag.

Action Step: Take a photo and track its lean over time. Sudden shifts mean you need to call a professional.

2. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

Deep cracks, splits, or cavities in the trunk can signal serious structural issues. These are weak spots that can fail under pressure.

Action Step: Check where the trunk meets large limbs or the ground. If you spot cracking or oozing, it’s time for an inspection.

3. Root Problems

Roots are the anchor. If they’re rotting, cracked, or lifting from the ground, the whole tree may be unstable.

Action Step: Look around the base. Are mushrooms growing near the roots? That could be internal rot. Call in an arborist for a closer look.

4. Dead or Hanging Branches

One dead branch might not seem like a big deal. But when several limbs are lifeless, brittle, or hanging low, the risk increases. These are the branches most likely to fall unexpectedly.

Action Step: Trim what you can safely reach. For anything larger or higher up, bring in a tree service team.

5. Tree Shows Signs of Disease

In Farmington, CT, we see our fair share of tree illnesses—from fungal infections to insect infestations like emerald ash borer. Yellowing leaves, early leaf drop, or spots on bark can all indicate a sick tree.

Action Step: Keep an eye on seasonal changes. If a tree isn’t behaving like the rest of your landscape, it could be in decline.

6. Storm Damage or Lightning Strikes

After a major storm, even healthy trees can be compromised. A lightning strike can hollow out a tree from the inside without you knowing.

Action Step: Post-storm, give your trees a once-over. Check for fresh splits, torn limbs, or missing bark. If it took a direct hit, don’t wait—get it looked at ASAP.

Why It Matters in Farmington, CT

Our area gets a mix of everything: heavy snow, windstorms, and summer thunderstorms. Combine that with mature neighborhoods and big shade trees, and it’s a recipe for tree-related damage if you’re not vigilant.

Plus, if a tree on your property causes damage and you knew it was risky, your insurance company might not cover it. Yep, that’s a costly oversight.

What To Do If You Suspect a Hazard

Don’t wait. Call a certified arborist.
Document the damage. Especially after a storm.
Get quotes from a local, insured tree service.

If you’re in Farmington, CT, our team at [Your Company Name] can help you figure out exactly what your tree needs—whether it’s a trim, a treatment, or full removal.