Daniel Thompson
February 22, 2026
Most homeowners don’t spend much time thinking about their trees until something goes wrong. It might be a large branch crashing onto the lawn after strong winds, leaves blocking the gutters, or a neighbour pointing out that a tree appears to be leaning more than it used to. By then, what could have been a simple maintenance job has often become an urgent and expensive problem.
Perth’s climate presents unique challenges for trees. Long, hot summers place them under constant stress, while winter storms can expose hidden weaknesses that have been developing for years. Trees that appear perfectly healthy from a distance may have structural issues that only become obvious when strong winds arrive.
The good news is that most tree-related hazards develop gradually, giving homeowners plenty of opportunity to act before serious damage occurs. Knowing what to look for can help you protect your home, your family and your investment.
1. Dead or Hanging Branches
One of the clearest signs that a tree needs professional attention is the presence of dead branches.
Dead limbs become brittle over time and can snap without warning. Even on calm days, larger branches may fall under their own weight, while windy weather dramatically increases the risk.
Signs of dead branches include:
- No leaves during the growing season
- Bark peeling away from the wood
- Dry, brittle twigs that snap easily
- Discoloured or cracked timber
Large dead branches hanging over your house, driveway, footpaths or neighbouring properties should never be ignored. These limbs can weigh hundreds of kilograms, making them extremely dangerous if they fall unexpectedly.
Professional pruning removes these hazards safely while helping the tree redirect energy towards healthy growth.
2. The Tree Has Started Leaning
Not every leaning tree is dangerous. Some species naturally develop at an angle and remain stable for decades.
However, a tree that has recently started leaning or appears to be leaning further each year deserves immediate attention.
Warning signs include:
- Exposed roots lifting from the soil
- Cracks forming in the ground around the base
- Soil heaving after heavy rain
- A noticeable change in the tree’s position
A shifting tree may indicate root failure, unstable soil or internal structural damage. Left unchecked, the entire tree could eventually collapse during severe weather.
An experienced arborist can determine whether the tree can be stabilised through pruning or whether removal is the safest option.
3. Cracks or Cavities in the Trunk
The trunk is the tree’s main support system. Damage here is far more serious than broken branches.
Large cracks, hollow sections or deep cavities often indicate internal decay. While trees can sometimes survive with hollow centres, the amount of remaining healthy timber determines whether they’re still structurally sound.
Some warning signs include:
- Vertical cracks
- Deep splits
- Large holes
- Mushrooms or fungal growth emerging from damaged areas
These defects weaken the tree’s ability to withstand Perth’s winter storms and should always be professionally assessed.
4. Branches Growing Too Close to Your Home
Trees naturally grow towards sunlight, but over time their branches can begin interfering with nearby structures.
Common problems include:
- Roof contact
- Gutters filling with leaves
- Branches rubbing against walls
- Limbs hanging over outdoor entertaining areas
- Trees growing into power lines
Branches scraping across roof tiles during windy weather can gradually damage roofing materials and create entry points for water.
Overgrown trees also make it easier for pests such as rodents to access your roof space.
Strategic pruning helps maintain safe clearances while preserving the tree’s natural shape.
5. Signs of Disease or Decay
Many tree diseases develop slowly, making early detection essential.
Some common symptoms include:
- Yellowing leaves outside seasonal changes
- Sparse canopy growth
- Premature leaf drop
- Oozing sap
- Fungal growth
- Large sections of dying branches
Disease doesn’t always mean a tree needs to be removed. In many cases, selective pruning, improved growing conditions or ongoing maintenance can restore the tree’s health.
The earlier problems are identified, the greater the chance of saving the tree.
6. Trees Damaged by Previous Storms
Storm damage isn’t always obvious immediately after bad weather.
Strong winds may create hidden fractures that weaken major limbs without causing them to fall straight away.
After severe storms, it’s worth checking for:
- Split branch unions
- Hanging limbs
- Fresh cracks
- Torn bark
- Broken tops
- Newly exposed roots
These injuries often worsen over time as moisture enters damaged timber and decay begins.
Scheduling a professional inspection after major storms can identify hidden problems before they become dangerous.
7. The Tree Has Simply Become Too Large
Sometimes there’s nothing wrong with the tree itself.
Instead, it has simply outgrown the space where it was planted.
Large mature trees may begin affecting:
- Building foundations
- Underground pipes
- Retaining walls
- Swimming pools
- Fences
- Driveways
Oversized canopies can also block sunlight from gardens and create excessive leaf litter throughout the year.
Rather than removing a healthy tree immediately, professional canopy reduction or structural pruning may restore the right balance between the tree and your property.
Why Regular Tree Maintenance Saves Money
Many homeowners delay tree work because nothing appears urgent.
Ironically, this often leads to much larger bills later.
Routine inspections and maintenance typically cost far less than emergency call-outs following storm damage.
Preventative maintenance may include:
- Crown thinning
- Deadwood removal
- Structural pruning
- Hazard assessments
- Disease monitoring
- Stump management where required
Regular care also extends the lifespan of healthy trees, allowing homeowners to enjoy their environmental and aesthetic benefits for many years.
Why DIY Tree Work Often Costs More
Pruning small shrubs is one thing.
Working on mature trees is something entirely different.
Without proper equipment and training, it’s surprisingly easy to:
- Damage the tree permanently
- Create unsafe regrowth
- Cut branches that fall unpredictably
- Injure yourself
- Damage roofs, fences or neighbouring properties
Improper pruning cuts also leave trees vulnerable to disease and decay.
Professional arborists understand how different tree species respond to pruning and know which branches should be removed while maintaining the tree’s long-term health.
Preparing for Perth’s Storm Season
The best time to assess your trees isn’t after severe weather—it’s before storm season begins.
A professional inspection can identify hidden defects while conditions are still safe for maintenance work.
This proactive approach helps reduce the likelihood of:
- Falling branches
- Property damage
- Insurance claims
- Emergency tree removals
- Power outages caused by tree failures
For homeowners across Perth’s northern suburbs, arranging an inspection before winter storms arrive provides valuable peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Trees are among the most valuable features on any property, providing shade, privacy, wildlife habitat and long-term value. However, like any living thing, they require occasional care to remain safe and healthy.
Learning to recognise early warning signs gives you the opportunity to address problems before they become emergencies. Whether it’s removing dead branches, treating disease or assessing structural concerns, acting early almost always results in safer outcomes and lower costs.
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs around your property, arranging a professional tree assessment is one of the smartest investments you can make. A qualified arborist can determine whether simple pruning will restore your tree’s health or whether more extensive work is needed, helping you protect both your landscape and your home for years to come.
