Most people can tell when a tree looks unwell — a sparse canopy, dead branches, or a lean that wasn’t there last year are all visible signs that something isn’t right. But tree risk is more complex than appearances alone, and some of the most dangerous trees show few outward signs of their condition until it’s too late. Here’s what to look for, and when to call a qualified arborist.
Understanding tree risk
Tree risk is the combination of two things — the likelihood of a tree or part of a tree failing, and the consequences of that failure. A large tree overhanging a dwelling in a high-use area presents a very different risk profile to the same tree in an open paddock with no targets nearby.
This is an important distinction because not every defective tree is a high-risk tree — and not every tree that looks healthy is risk-free. Proper tree risk assessment considers both the condition of the tree and the context in which it stands.
Warning signs to look for
While a thorough tree risk assessment requires a qualified arborist, there are visible signs that warrant closer attention:
Dead or dying branches — Deadwood in the canopy is one of the most common sources of falling debris. Large dead branches, particularly over high-use areas, should be assessed and removed promptly.
Cracks or splits in the trunk or major limbs — Visible cracks, splits, or separation at branch unions can indicate structural weakness that significantly increases the likelihood of failure.
Fungal growth — Mushrooms, brackets, or conks growing on the trunk, root zone, or major limbs are often an indicator of internal decay — which may not be visible from the outside.
Leaning — A tree that has developed a new or increasing lean, particularly after wet weather or wind events, warrants immediate attention.
Root zone disturbance — Soil heaving, exposed roots, or recent changes to the ground level around the base of the tree can indicate root system instability.
Bark damage or cavities — Open wounds, missing bark, or cavities in the trunk or major limbs can provide entry points for decay fungi and compromise the structural integrity of the tree.
Canopy dieback — A thinning or dying canopy, particularly on one side of the tree, can indicate root damage, disease, or structural failure within the tree.
When to act
If you notice any of the above signs — particularly in a tree located near a dwelling, over a path or driveway, or in an area regularly used by people — don’t wait. The consequences of tree failure can be severe, and early intervention is almost always less costly than dealing with the aftermath.
A qualified arborist can assess the tree, determine the level of risk, and recommend appropriate action — whether that’s targeted pruning, cabling and bracing, or removal where the risk cannot be adequately mitigated.
What a professional tree risk assessment involves
A tree risk assessment prepared by a VALID Accredited arborist provides a structured, evidence-based evaluation of the tree’s condition and the risk it presents. The assessment considers the likelihood of failure, the size of the part likely to fail, and the consequences of that failure to people and property — producing a clear risk rating and actionable recommendations.
In Victoria, tree risk assessments are expected to be conducted in accordance with the VALID tree risk-benefit management methodology — ensuring that findings are consistent, defensible, and accepted by councils, insurers, and relevant authorities.
Your duty of care as a property owner
As a property owner, you have a legal duty of care to take reasonable steps to prevent foreseeable harm from trees on your property. If a tree on your property causes damage or injury and it can be demonstrated that you were aware of — or should have been aware of — a defect or risk, you may be held liable.
A professional tree risk assessment provides documented evidence that you have taken your duty of care seriously — and in many cases, can support insurance claims or legal proceedings where tree failure has resulted in loss or damage.
At Shelterwood Consulting Arborist, our tree risk assessments are conducted using the VALID tree risk-benefit management methodology by an AQF5 qualified, VALID Accredited arborist — giving you a clear, defensible assessment of the trees on your property.