What we evaluate
We look at the whole tree and its setting: species and its typical failure patterns, overall health and vigor, and structural defects — cracks, cavities, decay, included bark, poor branch attachments, and deadwood. We check the root zone for signs of decay, disturbance, or a lifting root plate, and we consider lean and load. Just as important is the target: what's underneath — a house, a driveway, a play area, a road — because risk is a combination of how likely a failure is and what it would hit.
When to get one
A risk assessment is worth it before you buy or build near mature trees, after a storm or drought-stressed season, when a tree has visibly declined or developed a new lean, when construction or grading has happened over the roots, and any time a large tree overhangs something valuable and you're just not sure. It's also the responsible step for liability on rental and commercial property.
What you get
A clear recommendation: retain as-is, prune to correct a defect, monitor on a schedule, or remove. Often the news is good and a tree people assumed was doomed can be kept with a targeted prune. When removal is warranted, you'll understand exactly why.
What Affects the Cost
Every job is different, so we quote after seeing it — free and with no pressure. These are the factors that move the price:
- Number of trees being evaluated
- Size and complexity of the trees and site
- Whether any testing or a written report is needed
Tree Risk Assessment — FAQ
Can you tell if a tree is dangerous just by looking?+
An experienced arborist can spot most warning signs from the ground and a close inspection — lean, decay, root problems, deadwood, cracks. Some internal decay needs further checking, and we'll tell you if that's the case.
Will you recommend removal to make a sale?+
No. We make more sense as your long-term tree service by being honest. If a tree can be saved, we'll say so.
Do you have a certified arborist?+
Steven is a working arborist with 11 years of hands-on tree care experience, and he personally assesses every job. He does not currently hold ISA certification. If your situation requires a credentialed assessment — an insurance claim, a legal dispute, or a municipal requirement — tell us and we'll point you to someone who does.