How to Know If a Tree Is Dangerous — And What to Do About It

Is That Tree a Threat?

Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Find Out

Not all tree hazards are obvious—but ignoring the warning signs could cost you thousands in storm damage or emergency repairs. Whether it’s a tree leaning toward your house, a diseased trunk, or unstable roots, knowing how to spot a dangerous tree early is critical for your safety.


At Platinum Bleu Tree Service, we specialize in preventative tree removal and residential tree removal in Little Rock, helping homeowners protect their property before disaster strikes. In this guide, you’ll learn the key signs of trouble, what actions to take, and how our team can help with large or dangerous tree removal when it matters most.

Signs That a Tree Might Be Dangerous

Trees can become hazardous over time due to storms, disease, age, or unnoticed structural issues. Spotting these warning signs early can help you avoid costly damage and ensure the safety of your home and family. Here are some of the most common red flags:

  • A Tree Leaning Toward Your House

    A sudden or severe lean often means the tree’s root system is compromised. If the lean is new or worsening, this tree could fall without warning and should be inspected immediately.

  • Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

    Large vertical splits or cracks can indicate internal decay. These weaknesses may not be visible from a distance but pose a major risk, especially during high winds or storms.

  • Dead or Hanging Branches

    Deadwood is brittle and unpredictable. Limbs hanging over your home, driveway, or power lines can fall and cause serious injury or damage.

  • Mushrooms or Fungus at the Base

    Fungal growth around the base of a tree is a sign of root rot. This often means the internal structure of the tree is weakening, making it unstable.

  • Exposed Roots or Heaving Soil

    If the roots are lifting from the ground or the soil appears disturbed, it may mean the tree is shifting. This could be caused by saturated soil, erosion, or a failing root system.

  • Storm Damage or Lightning Scars

    Trees that have been hit by lightning or damaged in previous storms may look stable but could be hollow, weakened, or structurally compromised.

Why You Should Act Early

When it comes to tree hazards, time is not on your side. A seemingly stable tree can quickly become a threat under the right conditions—heavy rain, strong winds, or ice can turn a leaning or damaged tree into a fallen one overnight. That’s why early intervention is key.

Protect Your Property

Trees that are close to your home, garage, fence, or utility lines can cause severe damage if they fall. Acting early with preventative tree removal helps avoid roof damage, smashed vehicles, broken windows, and costly insurance claims.

Boost Your Home’s Value & Safety

Curb appeal and safety go hand in hand. Removing dead, leaning, or diseased trees improves the look of your yard and reassures potential buyers that the property is well-maintained.

Save Money

Emergency tree removal is often more expensive than a scheduled one. When a tree falls without warning, crews may need to respond after hours, navigate tricky access, or remove it under unsafe conditions. Choosing residential tree removal in Little Rock before an emergency arises can significantly reduce costs.

Avoid Liability

If a known hazardous tree causes injury or damage—especially after a warning—it could leave you legally responsible. Acting early isn’t just smart; it’s often necessary to protect yourself from potential lawsuits.

Our Expert Approach to Dangerous Tree Removal

At Platinum Bleu Tree Service, we specialize in the safe and efficient removal of large or dangerous trees—especially those that threaten homes, vehicles, or power lines. Our trained professionals use advanced equipment and proven techniques to handle complex removals with precision and care.


Whether it’s a towering oak that’s rotting from the inside or a tree leaning toward your house, we assess every risk and remove the threat before it becomes a costly emergency. Our team understands the unique challenges of residential tree removal in Little Rock, from tight spaces to storm-damaged properties.



But the best way to avoid disaster is by acting before trouble starts.

That’s why we offer free tree safety inspections to homeowners across Central Arkansas. During an inspection, we’ll:

Identify signs of decay, root instability, or storm damage

Recommend whether preventative tree removal is necessary

Help you avoid costly surprises with clear, expert advice

Don’t Wait for a Tree to Fall

If you’ve been searching for a trusted tree removal service near me, or if you're unsure whether a tree on your property is safe, give us a call. Let our local professionals help you protect your home—and your peace of mind.