Most tree work can wait for a quote, a plan, a good weather window. Some cannot. The difference matters — because the tree failing tonight doesn’t care that your arborist opens at 8am.
Memorise these seven signs. If you’re seeing one, stop reading and call.
1. A lean that’s new
Trees that grew up leaning hold themselves. Trees that started leaning are falling. Compare against old photos or fence lines — if the angle has changed, especially after rain, the root plate is moving. This is the single most urgent sign there is.
2. Soil lifting or cracking on one side
Heaved, cracked or separating soil opposite the lean direction means roots are pulling out of the ground. The tree is, quite literally, coming unplugged. Keep everyone away from the fall zone.
3. Deep trunk cracks or splits
A crack you can see into — especially one running vertically or through a major fork — means the structure is separating. These can fail without wind, without warning, on a calm blue day.
4. Hanging or lodged branches
“Widow-makers” — broken limbs caught in the canopy — fall unpredictably, sometimes days later, sometimes when someone walks underneath. Never stand under one. Never try to pull it down yourself.
5. Fungal brackets plus lean or cracks
Brackets at the base signal internal decay; combined with any structural sign, the tree’s holding capacity is genuinely unknown. This combination moves a tree to the top of our triage list.
6. The tree is touching (or near) powerlines
This changes everything: it’s now an electrical emergency. Call Energex on 13 19 62 first, then us. No exceptions, no DIY, ever.
7. It already failed — partially
A split trunk still standing, a limb on the roof, a tree on the fence under tension. Storm-loaded timber stores terrifying energy. Cordon the area, keep people and pets clear, and let a crew with rigging release it safely.
What to do right now
Keep everyone clear of the fall zone (1.5× tree height). Don’t cut, pull or park anything near it. Call 07 5472 8660 — we answer 24/7 and triage genuine emergencies first. If lines are involved, Energex 13 19 62 before anyone else.
When a tree gives these signs, the clock is already running. Clear the zone, make the call — we’ll take it from there.
