Hazardous trees can pose serious risks to people, homes, vehicles, and power lines. Storm damage, disease, structural weakness, or poor placement can turn a once-healthy tree into a safety concern. Because removing a dangerous tree involves careful planning and specialized equipment, many homeowners have questions about the process. At Orange County Tree Service , we’re happy to answer your questions about hazardous tree removal in the greater Greenwood Lake, NY area. What Makes a Tree Considered Hazardous? A tree is typically considered hazardous when it has structural issues or damage that increase the likelihood of failure. This can include large dead branches, visible cracks in the trunk, leaning significantly, or roots that have been compromised. Trees affected by disease or pests may also weaken internally, making them more likely to fall without warning. Proximity to homes, driveways, or utility lines increases the urgency of removal because failure could cause serious damage or injury. How Can I Tell If a Tree Needs to Be Removed? Some warning signs are easy to spot, while others require a professional assessment . Fungal growth at the base of the trunk, hollow areas, and peeling bark can indicate decay. If a tree suddenly begins leaning after a storm or heavy winds, it may have root damage. Falling branches, even small ones, can also be a sign that the tree is unstable. When in doubt, a tree care professional can evaluate the tree’s condition and recommend the safest course of action. Is Hazardous Tree Removal Dangerous? Removing a hazardous tree is one of the most dangerous types of tree work . Unstable trees can fall unpredictably, and heavy branches can cause severe injury or property damage. Specialized tools, rigging systems, and safety procedures are often required to control how sections of the tree are cut and lowered. For this reason, hazardous tree removal should always be handled by trained professionals who understand how to manage the risks involved. What Happens During the Removal Process? The process usually begins with an assessment of the tree’s condition and surroundings. Professionals determine the safest way to remove the tree, often cutting it down in sections rather than felling it in one piece. Once the tree is removed, the stump may be ground down or left in place depending on your preference. Where Can I Find Hazardous Tree Removal in Orange County, NY? For expert hazardous tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at  845-288-1340  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake !

There are times when a tree becomes more of a liability than an asset. When a tree poses safety risks or interferes with structures and utilities, professional removal may be necessary. At Orange County Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Greenwood Lake, NY area. Understanding the most common situations that call for professional tree removal can help property owners protect their homes and avoid costly damage. Severe Storm Damage Strong winds, heavy rain, ice, and lightning can cause serious damage to trees in a short amount of time. Large broken limbs, split trunks, or partially uprooted trees are signs that a tree’s structural integrity has been compromised. Storm-damaged trees are unpredictable and may fall without warning, especially during the next weather event. Professional tree removal ensures the tree is taken down safely without causing further damage to surrounding property. Advanced Disease/Extensive Decay Trees suffering from advanced disease or internal decay often cannot be saved. Fungal growth, hollow sections, soft wood, or widespread dieback indicate that the tree’s strength has been significantly reduced. As decay spreads, the risk of sudden failure increases. Removing a severely compromised tree helps prevent unexpected collapse. Dangerous Leaning A tree that leans heavily or begins leaning more over time can pose a serious safety threat. Changes in soil conditions, root damage, or decay may be causing the tree to lose its stability. Leaning trees located near homes, driveways, or walkways are especially hazardous. Professional removal is often the safest option when a tree's root support is no longer reliable. Interference With Structures or Utilities Trees that grow too close to buildings, power lines, or underground utilities can create ongoing problems. Roots may damage foundations, sidewalks, or plumbing lines, while branches can rub against roofs or entangle power lines. When trimming alone is no longer sufficient to manage these risks, complete removal may be necessary. Dead or Dying Trees Near Occupied Areas Dead trees lose their ability to adapt to wind and weather, making them more likely to fall or shed large branches. When a dead or dying tree stands near a home, playground, or frequently used area, the risk increases significantly. Professional tree removal eliminates this hazard. Tree Removal in Orange County, NY For tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at  845-288-1340  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake, NY!