Dangerous trees aren’t always obvious — and in Central Florida, where sudden wind gusts, storms, and shifting soil are common, a tree that looks healthy on the outside can quickly turn into a major risk. As we start the new year, this is the perfect time to take a closer look at the trees on your property and make sure they aren’t quietly becoming dangerous trees that threaten your home, vehicles, or family.
At A Cut Above Tree & Landscape Inc, we help homeowners throughout Chuluota, Oviedo, Winter Springs, Orlando, and surrounding areas identify dangerous trees early, before they lead to expensive property damage or emergency removals. Below are the top warning signs to watch for.
Leaning or Tilting: A Classic Sign of Dangerous Trees
A gradual lean isn’t always a problem, but a sudden or worsening tilt is one of the most common indicators of dangerous trees. In Central Florida’s sandy soil, root systems can loosen quickly, leaving a tree unstable even in moderate winds. If your tree is leaning toward your home, driveway, or a neighboring property, it should be inspected right away.
Cracks, Splits, and Cavities in the Trunk
Cracks in the trunk or large limbs often signal internal decay — a major red flag when identifying dangerous trees. Even if the canopy looks full, internal damage weakens structural integrity. Trees with vertical splits, open cavities, or peeling bark are more likely to fail during storms or high winds.
Dead Limbs and Falling Branches
Branches that snap easily, sag, or fall during mild weather are strong indicators that a tree is becoming hazardous. Dead limbs are unpredictable and can fall at any time, posing risks to roofs, vehicles, fences, and people. This is particularly common in older oaks throughout the Orlando region. Proper trimming helps eliminate dangerous branches before they break.
Fungal Growth or Rotting Wood at the Base
Mushrooms, conks, soft wood, and signs of rot at the base of a tree often mean internal decay has already started. In Florida’s warm, humid climate, fungal decay spreads fast — turning healthy-looking trees into dangerous trees without much warning. If you see fungal growth, schedule a professional inspection right away.
Root Damage and Exposed Roots
Roots anchor your tree. When they become exposed, lifted, or damaged, the entire tree becomes unstable. Root issues can be caused by erosion, construction, improper planting, or invasive growth patterns. A tree with compromised roots is one of the most dangerous trees on a property because it can fall without clear warning signs.
A Cut Above Tree & Landscape offers root pruning and inspections to help control root problems before they endanger structures or affect overall tree health.
Sudden Leaf Loss or Thinning Canopy
If one tree on your property is losing leaves unexpectedly or developing a thin, patchy canopy, it may be experiencing disease, pest damage, or root problems — all of which can turn it into a dangerous tree over time. Healthy trees maintain full, balanced canopies even in Florida’s mild winters.
Storm Damage That Was Never Addressed
Florida’s frequent windstorms and seasonal weather fronts can weaken trees long before they show noticeable symptoms. If your tree suffered storm damage last year — even minor cracking or broken limbs — unresolved damage can create dangerous trees that fail when you least expect it.
Protect Your Property by Identifying Dangerous Trees Early
The safest way to determine whether a tree is hazardous is to have it evaluated by a certified professional. At A Cut Above Tree & Landscape Inc, we specialize in identifying dangerous trees and offering the right solutions, whether that means pruning, cabling, treatment, or full removal.
We provide:
• Arborist inspections for dangerous trees
• Hazard assessments
• Professional trimming & pruning
• Tree & stump removal
• Root pruning
• 24/7 emergency tree service
Dangerous trees don’t just disappear — they get riskier with time. Start the year off right by making sure your property is safe and your trees are healthy.
Schedule your tree inspection today and let our certified team help you eliminate dangerous trees before they become costly problems. Contact us today to get started.
