While trees enhance property value and the environment, you may find yourself needing to remove a tree for safety or property protection. Homeowners and property managers must recognize when a tree poses risks and the value of professional tree care services in handling the process safely. At Advanced Tree Care (ATC), we prioritize preserving healthy trees, but when removal is unavoidable, we ensure it is done safely and efficiently, protecting your property and landscape. Below, we cover three valid reasons to remove a tree, as well as what to expect when working with our certified arborists as part of professional tree removal.
reasons to remove a tree
- Structural Instability
Over time, trees can become hollow, or develop structural issues such as splits, cracks, and weakened branch unions. This can compromise their stability and make them more susceptible to failure during storms or high winds. In addition, some trees have aggressive root systems. This can lead to damage caused by roots, like foundational cracks, driveway upheaval, or interference with underground utilities.
Our expert arborists assess both the structural integrity of trees and the potential for external impact. When possible, we structurally reinforce trees with cabling and bracing systems to improve stability and expand their lifespan. If removal is necessary, we ensure a safe and damage-free process.
- Storm Damage
Strong winds, heavy snow, and ice, can push trees beyond their limits. Trees near power lines or buildings can also pose additional hazards, leading to potentially costly repairs or power outages. If a tree is heavily damaged and unlikely to recover, removal is often the safest option.
After a major storm, our consulting arborists will perform a professional assessment of damage, including risk mitigation, and make recommendations for recovery or removal.
Proactive inspections before storm season can also help prevent costly damage. Early detection of issues – such as signs of disease, structural weakness, or fungal infections – allows for timely intervention. In some cases, a high-risk tree can be safely removed before it fails. In others cases, strategic pruning, removing hazardous branches, and adding structural support, can help preserve the tree.
- Pests and Tree Diseases
Pests and diseases can weaken trees, damaging a tree’s natural immune system, reducing its lifespan, and causing destruction in urban areas. If a tree becomes a host for harmful insects or diseases, removal may be necessary to protect the surrounding landscape.
Our consulting arborists assess pest and disease infestations, determine treatment options, and provide expert guidance on whether removal is the best course of action.
What to Expect from Professional Tree Removal
At ATC, we handle even the most challenging removals with precision and care, ensuring responsible and sustainable tree management. Here’s what to expect in the lead-up to tree removal by one of ATC’s certified arborists:
- Assessment – Our arborists carefully evaluate your tree’s condition, treating removal as a last resort. Whenever possible, we explore alternative solutions, like structural support or pruning, that can extend your tree’s lifespan and improve its health.
- Permits and Regulations – Depending on local bylaws, a permit may be a requirement to remove the tree. ATC can help guide you through this process.
- Safe Removal – Our experts use advanced equipment to remove trees efficiently, minimizing risk and property damage.
- Cleanup and Stump Grinding – We clean the are prior to departing the site and provide stump grinding services on request.
Tree Removal Permits: What You Need to Know
Tree removal isn’t always as simple as scheduling a service. In fact, many municipalities enforce Private Tree By-Laws to protect urban forests. Our consulting arborists navigate these regulations, helping clients secure necessary permits.
In many cases, municipalities require detailed Arborists Reports before approving tree removal, as they can be hesitant to remove trees without thorough assessment. For clients managing their own permit applications, ATC provides these detailed reports to support the process. Alternatively, we can handle the entire application process on your behalf, streamlining approvals with minimal effort on your part.
Final thoughts: reasons to remove a tree (and calling in the experts)
At ATC, we don’t take tree removal lightly. Our top priority is always tree preservation—but sometimes, removal proves necessary. If a tree poses a safety risk, affects your property, or shows signs of decline, consult a certified arborist. As experts committed to long-term tree health, we only recommend removal when we believe the tree is unlikely to recover.
If we suggest it, it’s a decision rooted in care, experience, and a clear-eyed view of what’s best for your landscape. Acting before your tree issues become costly problems will ultimately save you time, stress, and money—all while supporting the health of your property. Considering GTA tree removal? Contact the ATC experts today!
