Top 5 Signs Your Tree Needs to Be Removed

Trees bring beauty, shade, and a sense of calm to any property. But sometimes, even the strongest tree can turn into a safety hazard. If you overlook the early warning signs, you might end up dealing with property damage, injuries, or costly emergency removals. Knowing when to call for tree removal in Sydney can make all the difference.

At MP Tree Care, we’ve helped countless Sydney homeowners with professional tree services, from inspections and pruning to safe removals. Here are the top five signs your tree might need to be removed before it becomes a bigger problem.

1. The Tree Is Dead or Dying

A dead tree might not look like a major issue at first, but it quickly becomes unstable and dangerous. If your tree isn’t showing signs of life, it may already be beyond saving. Look out for these signs:

• No leaves during the growing season
• Dry, brittle branches that snap easily
• Peeling or missing bark
• Fungal growth or mushrooms near the base

You can test a small branch by bending it. If it breaks instead of flexing, the tree might be dead. Unfortunately, a dead tree cannot recover, and the longer it stands, the riskier it becomes. It’s best to contact MP Tree Care for a professional inspection and removal if necessary.

2. The Tree Is Leaning Suddenly

A slight lean in a tree is usually harmless if it has grown that way over time. However, if your tree has suddenly started leaning after strong winds or heavy rain, it could be a sign of root instability.

When roots loosen or start to lift from the ground, the entire tree becomes unstable. This makes it a serious hazard, especially during storms. You might also notice cracks in the soil or roots lifting above ground.

In such cases, calling a professional arborist is the safest move. They can assess whether the tree can be stabilised with support systems or if removal is the only safe solution.

3. There’s Visible Damage on the Trunk

The trunk is the main support system for any tree. When it’s damaged, the tree’s structural integrity is compromised. Watch out for:

• Cracks or deep cavities
• Missing sections of bark
• Signs of rot or decay
• Mushrooms or fungal growth on the trunk

Sometimes trees can survive minor trunk wounds, but if more than one-third of the trunk is damaged, the risk of falling increases significantly. Internal rot can also spread silently, making the tree weaker over time.

A qualified arborist can help determine whether the damage can be treated or if the tree needs to come down completely.

4. The Roots Are Damaged or Decaying

Tree roots are the foundation of its strength and health. When roots are damaged, the tree loses both support and nutrients. While root problems are not always visible, you can watch for a few tell-tale signs:

• Mushrooms or fungi growing near the base
• Soil cracking or lifting around the trunk
• Sparse leaves or dying branches on the top half of the tree
• Noticeable leaning or shifting of the trunk

Root damage can happen due to poor drainage, compacted soil, or construction work near the tree. Once roots start rotting, the problem often spreads quickly.

At MP Tree Care, our arborists use proper assessment techniques to check root health and recommend whether the tree can be saved or if removal is the safer option.

5. The Tree Is Too Close to Structures or Power Lines

Even healthy trees can become a problem if they grow too close to your home, driveway, or utility lines. Overhanging branches can damage your roof or walls, while roots can lift pavements or invade plumbing systems.

If branches are brushing against your windows or power lines, it’s time to call a tree care professional. Regular trimming can help control growth, but in some cases, full removal may be the safest choice.

Sydney’s weather can be unpredictable, and overgrown trees near homes can cause serious damage during storms. Having your property assessed by a professional can help you make the right decision.

Why You Should Never Attempt Tree Removal Yourself?

Tree removal might look simple, but it’s dangerous work that requires experience, the right equipment, and knowledge of tree structure. A single wrong cut can send a branch or trunk falling in an unpredictable direction.

Professional arborists are trained to remove trees safely, especially in tight spaces or near buildings. At MP Tree Care, we take safety seriously and handle every project with care and precision. Our tree services cover inspections, pruning, removals, and maintenance for both residential and commercial properties across Sydney.

Final Thoughts

Trees are a valuable part of your landscape, but they also need proper attention. Spotting warning signs early can prevent accidents, injuries, and costly damage.

If your tree looks unhealthy, leans unusually, or shows signs of decay, don’t wait for it to fall. Get in touch with MP Tree Care for reliable tree removal in Sydney. Our experienced team will assess the condition of your tree and guide you on the safest and most practical solution.