What Is a Tree Risk Assessment?

A Tree Risk Assessment is a systematic process of evaluating the potential for a tree or part of a tree to fail and cause damage. When I conduct one, I’m looking at everything from root health to canopy structure to the tree’s position in relation to nearby structures, driveways, and people.

I don’t guess. I assess. Using the industry-standard methodology (ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, or TRAQ), I deliver an objective, professional evaluation that gives you the confidence to make the right call—whether that’s pruning, cabling, monitoring, or removal.

Why Tree Risk Assessments Matter

Trees can add beauty, value, and shade to a property—but they can also become hazards if left unmanaged. A Tree Risk Assessment helps you:

• Protect your family and visitors from falling limbs or entire tree failures

• Prevent property damage to your home, vehicles, fences, and utility lines

• Avoid liability if someone gets injured on your property

• Preserve healthy trees by identifying and managing risks early

• Make informed choices rather than costly emergency decisions

As someone who’s been on both sides—helping people before and after tree failures—I can tell you: early assessment is always cheaper than a 2 a.m. emergency call.

Signs You Might Need a Tree Risk Assessment

Not every tree needs to be evaluated, but if you’ve noticed any of the following, it’s time to bring in a Certified Arborist for a Tree Risk Assessment:

• Large dead or hanging branches

• Significant lean, especially with soil lifting at the base

• Cracks in the trunk or major limbs

• Fungal growth around the base or root collar

• Hollow spots or cavities

• Root damage from construction or digging

• Trees too close to buildings or power lines

Even if you’re not sure, trust your gut. If something about the tree makes you uneasy, let me take a look. You’re not overreacting—you’re being responsible.

What Happens During a Tree Risk Assessment?

When I arrive on-site for a Tree Risk Assessment, I take the time to walk the property with you, listen to your concerns, and inspect the tree from the ground up. My assessment typically includes:

1. Visual Inspection – I look at trunk condition, canopy structure, root flare, leaf health, and surrounding soil.

2. Risk Factor Evaluation – I assess likelihood of failure, target impact (what’s beneath or nearby), and consequences.

3. Photographic Documentation – I take pictures for records, permitting, or insurance purposes if needed.

4. Recommendations – Based on my findings, I’ll recommend a plan of action—whether that’s monitoring, pruning, cabling, or removal.

5. Written Report – Upon request, I provide a detailed report outlining my findings, risk rating, and guidance for next steps.

This process doesn’t take long, but it can make a world of difference in protecting what matters most to you.

Tree Risk Assessment for Homeowners

As a homeowner, you want to feel safe on your own property. You also want to protect the beauty and value that mature trees provide. I consult with homeowners all the time who aren’t sure what to do with a questionable tree. They don’t want to remove it unless they have to—but they also don’t want to gamble with their safety.

A professional Tree Risk Assessment gives you clarity. I’ll help you determine if the tree poses a threat, if the risk can be mitigated, or if it’s safe to leave as-is with routine maintenance.

You don’t have to make that call alone. That’s why I’m here.

Tree Risk Assessment for HOAs, Schools, and Commercial Properties

If you manage a larger property—like a homeowners’ association, apartment complex, school, or commercial campus—you’re responsible for more than just aesthetics. You’re also responsible for safety and liability. A single tree failure can lead to expensive lawsuits, property loss, and public scrutiny.

Regular Tree Risk Assessments are a vital part of responsible property management. I can walk your grounds, evaluate your trees, and help you prioritize action based on real, documented risk—not guesswork.

And because I’m a Certified Arborist with TRAQ credentials, my assessments carry credibility and hold up under inspection, insurance review, and legal scrutiny.

What Tree Risk Levels Really Mean

After a Tree Risk Assessment, I assign each tree a risk level—typically categorized as Low, Moderate, High, or Extreme. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Low Risk – Failure is unlikely, and consequences would be minor. Monitoring or basic maintenance recommended.

• Moderate Risk – Some defects present, but failure is not imminent. Risk may be mitigated with pruning or cabling.

• High Risk – Likely to fail in the near term, with significant consequences. Action is strongly recommended.

• Extreme Risk – Immediate danger to people or property. Removal is usually advised.

My goal is to be honest and clear with you—no scare tactics, just facts. If a tree is safe, I’ll tell you. If it’s not, I’ll explain exactly why and help you decide what to do next.

The Cost of Ignoring Tree Risk

I’ve had to deliver some hard news over the years—telling folks that a tree they love is too risky to keep. But what’s even harder is seeing what happens when that call isn’t made in time.

Ignoring a potential hazard can lead to:

• Injuries from falling branches or tree collapses

• Structural damage to roofs, cars, fences, or utilities

• Emergency tree removals that cost 2–3x more than planned removals

• Insurance claims, legal fees, or liability disputes

• Heartbreak over a lost tree that could’ve been saved with earlier intervention

A Tree Risk Assessment helps you avoid those outcomes. It’s not just about reacting—it’s about planning.

Real Stories, Real Results

One homeowner called me about a large maple near their house that looked “a little off.” I performed a full Tree Risk Assessment, and what we found shocked them—major internal decay and fungal fruiting bodies near the roots. We removed the tree safely within a week.

Two weeks later, a windstorm came through and took out a nearly identical maple across the street—right through a neighbor’s garage.

This kind of thing happens more often than you think. Sometimes the best thing you can do is just ask.

Peace of Mind Starts with a Conversation

When people call me about a Tree Risk Assessment, they often start the conversation a little nervous. They’re not sure if they’re overthinking things. But by the time we’re done, they feel empowered. Because now they know the truth—and they have a path forward.

That’s what I love most about this work. I don’t just assess trees. I help people protect what they care about most.

Hire Align Tree Management for Your Tree Risk Assessment

You deserve clear answers, practical advice, and someone who’s not just certified—but genuinely cares. At Align Tree Management, I bring years of experience, a sharp eye, and the heart of a teacher to every Tree Risk Assessment I perform.

I don’t just show up with a clipboard. I show up ready to listen, educate, and support you in making smart decisions for your property.

If you’re unsure about a tree, if you're managing a property, or if you're planning construction near trees, don’t wait for damage to happen. Let’s talk now—before the storm, before the accident, before the regrets.

Contact Align Tree Management today to schedule your Tree Risk Assessment. Your trees, your safety, and your peace of mind are worth it.