How Do I Know If My Tree Is Going to Fall on My House?
Worried a tree might fall on your house? Here's what to look for.
Every year across the Salt Lake Valley, TruCo Services gets called to remove trees that have fallen on houses, cars, and fences. In almost every case, the homeowner tells us the same thing afterward: "I noticed something looked off, but I wasn't sure if it was serious."
That uncertainty is exactly what this guide is for. Here are the warning signs that tell you a tree is at risk of falling, what to do about it, and when you absolutely need to call a professional.
What Are the Warning Signs That a Tree Might Fall?
1. Trunk Lean Greater Than 15 Degrees
A tree that leans more than 15 degrees from vertical has a compromised root system or structural issue. Some trees grow with a natural lean, but a new lean or one that's getting worse over time is a red flag.
What to do: If the lean is sudden or increasing, call an arborist. A lean combined with cracked soil on the opposite side of the trunk means the roots are pulling out of the ground.
2. Dead or Hanging Branches
Dead branches in the upper canopy, known as "widowmakers," are a sign of internal decay. If more than 25% of the canopy is deadwood, the tree is stressed and structurally weakened.
What to do: Dead branches over 2 inches in diameter that hang over your house, driveway, or sidewalk should be removed by a professional tree service.
3. Cracks, Splits, or Cavities in the Trunk
Vertical cracks in the trunk, especially deep ones that expose inner wood, indicate structural failure. A split where the trunk divides into two main stems is particularly dangerous.
What to do: If the hollow section exceeds 30% of the trunk diameter, removal is usually recommended.
4. Exposed or Damaged Roots
Roots that are visibly damaged, cut, or rotting are a leading cause of tree failure. Common causes in Utah include construction damage, lawn mower blight, and soil compaction.
What to do: If more than 40% of the root system is damaged, the tree cannot support itself in high winds.
5. Soil Heaving or Cracked Ground Around the Base
Cracked soil or raised ground on the opposite side of the tree's lean means the root system is lifting out of the ground. This is called "root plate failure" and it's one of the most dangerous conditions.
What to do: This is an emergency. Evacuate the area and call a tree service immediately.
6. Sudden Leaning After a Storm
A tree that was straight before a storm and is now leaning has suffered root damage. Even a small lean of 5-10 degrees after a storm is a serious concern.
7. More Than 50% Dead Canopy
A tree that has lost more than half of its living canopy is in severe decline. This is common in Utah's older cottonwoods, silver maples, and Siberian elms.
8. Fungal Growth on the Trunk or Roots
Mushrooms or conks growing on the trunk or at the base of the tree are a sign of internal rot. Any visible fruiting body means decay is already present inside the tree.
What Types of Trees Are Most Likely to Fall in Utah?
Based on TruCo Services' 15+ years of emergency calls, the trees most likely to fail include cottonwoods (brittle wood, shallow roots), silver maples (weak wood), and Siberian elms (prone to decay). Native Utah trees like Gambel oak and ponderosa pine are generally more wind-resistant.
How Does Utah's Soil and Weather Affect Tree Stability?
Utah's clay-heavy soil prevents deep root growth, freeze-thaw cycles loosen root systems, and heavy wet snow adds thousands of pounds of weight to canopies. Over-watering in summer softens soil and makes uprooting more likely during windstorms.
Can a Tree That Looks Healthy Still Fall?
Yes. Internal rot can progress for years without visible signs. A tree with a full green canopy can be hollow inside. Root damage from construction can occur without above-ground signs. Annual inspections by a certified arborist are recommended for large trees near structures.
What Should I Do If I Think My Tree Is Dangerous?
If you have spotted any of the warning signs above, keep people and pets away from the tree, do not park vehicles under it, and call a certified arborist for an inspection. For preventive care tips, check out our Tree Care Essentials guide.
How Much Does Preventive Tree Removal Cost in Utah?
Removing a dangerous tree before it falls costs about half what emergency removal costs. Preventive removal runs $400 to $4,000 depending on tree size. For a detailed cost breakdown, see our tree removal cost guide in Murray Utah.
How Often Should I Have My Trees Inspected?
The International Society of Arboriculture recommends annual visual inspections for all trees near structures, after every major storm, and after construction near the root zone. If you are unsure what to look for, our blog has guides on tree health and maintenance.
Additional Resources
Watch our video on tree risk assessment: How to Spot a Dangerous Tree
For more information on keeping your property safe, check out these local guides:
Backyard Design Tips for Murray Utah
Backyard Design Tips for Sandy Utah
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a tree with a 45-degree lean be saved?
It depends. If the lean is due to root damage on one side and the tree is otherwise healthy, cabling may help. If the root plate is lifting, removal is safer.
Will my insurance cover preventive tree removal?
No, most homeowners policies only cover tree removal after a tree has damaged a covered structure. But preventive removal is much cheaper than emergency removal plus roof repair.
How do I know if a tree is dead or just dormant?
Try the scratch test: gently scratch a small area of bark. If the layer underneath is green, the branch is alive. If it is brown and dry, that branch is dead.
What is the most dangerous type of tree failure?
Root plate failure (the entire tree uprooting) is the most dangerous because the tree falls without warning. Most common in cottonwoods and silver maples.
Can pruning make a tree safer?
Yes. Professional pruning removes dead and weakly attached branches, reducing wind resistance and eliminating falling limb hazards.
What trees are safest to plant near a house in Utah?
Smaller ornamental trees like Japanese tree lilac, serviceberry, or crabapple. Avoid cottonwoods, silver maples, or willows within 50 feet of any structure.