5 Reasons Why You Need a Tree Risk Assessment in Palm Beach County, FL

Living in paradise comes with quite a few perks. Here in Pompano Beach, we’re lucky to have beautiful weather, stunning beaches, and, of course, the towering trees that line our streets and fill our yards with cool shade.

But what happens when high winds start to whip, and you hear an unsettling creaking sound coming from your trees? With the health and safety of your trees suddenly at the top of your priority list, it’s time to consider a tree risk assessment.

Key Takeaways:

• Palm Beach County’s trees can become worrisome during storms, but a tree risk assessment offers peace of mind.
• Tree risk assessments identify hazards, promote tree health, and reduce risks associated with unhealthy or weak trees.
• Investing in a tree risk assessment now saves money, protects your property, and avoids legal issues later.

What Is a Tree Risk Assessment?

A tree risk assessment is a professional evaluation of your tree’s condition. The primary goal is to assess the likelihood of tree failure and its potential consequences for injury to people or damage to property.

When you schedule a tree risk assessment, a certified arborist will thoroughly examine your tree, considering factors such as these:

Tree Health & Structural Condition

Are there any signs of common tree diseases, insect infestations, decay, or damage from a previous storm? An arborist will also check for weak branches, cracks in the trunk, or any other abnormalities that could compromise the tree’s stability.

Soil Conditions

The health of the soil your tree is growing in is important to its overall well-being. Florida’s soil composition and drainage issues on your property can affect a tree’s ability to anchor securely in the ground. Root issues, such as root rot or signs of soil heaving (which could indicate that the tree is beginning to lean), can also make a tree more prone to falling, even in calm weather. A soil test can help determine soil attributes like pH, major nutrient levels, micronutrient levels, and other information that will help you understand whether your tree will need supplemental fertilization or other treatments to remain healthy in the long term.

Wind Exposure

Trees in exposed locations, like those on a hilltop, along the coastal shoreline, or near a large body of water such as a lake, are more susceptible to wind damage. An arborist will consider the prevailing wind direction and strength in your area to determine the level of wind stress your tree is likely to experience.

Proximity to People, Buildings, or Vehicles

A tree with a higher risk of failure poses a more significant threat if it overhangs your house, driveway, or other areas where people, buildings, or vehicles are present. A tree risk assessment will consider this in determining whether your tree should be deemed a hazard tree and if it should be removed. It’s one thing for a tree to fall in a deserted field, but quite another for it to fall into a busy road or a playground full of children.

Tree Species Characteristics

Different tree species have varying lifespans, growth patterns, and inherent weaknesses. That’s why we recommend planting trees native to Florida or choosing hurricane-resistant varieties. These trees have a much better chance of thriving in our climate and surviving strong winds.

Why You Should Schedule a Tree Risk Assessment

The trees in Palm Beach County are part of what makes our tropical paradise so unique. Jacaranda trees paint our streets purple in the spring, while live oak trees, draped in Spanish moss, provide a much-needed break from the relentless sun.

But let’s face it – when the hurricane warnings hit and the wind starts whipping through the palms, those same trees that once brought you peace can suddenly fill you with anxiety. And while you might be tempted to forego a professional assessment to save some money upfront, a tree risk assessment offers many benefits, some of which prevent much bigger headaches (and expenses) down the road.

Benefit #1 – Safeguard Your Home and Neighborhood

A tree risk assessment can identify hidden dangers you might miss, like weak branches, root disease, or structural issues in the tree. By addressing these problems before a storm hits, you can significantly reduce the risk of injuries, property damage, and even power outages from occurring in your neighborhood.

Benefit #2 – Protect Yourself from Legal Issues

Unfortunately, accidents can happen. If a tree on your property fails and causes damage or injury, you could be held liable. A tree risk assessment provides valuable documentation of

your tree’s health and any identified hazards. This documentation can help you demonstrate that you took reasonable steps to maintain your trees and reduce the risk of an accident.

Benefit #3 – Promote a Long and Healthy Life for Your Trees

Just like us, trees need regular checkups to stay healthy. A tree risk assessment is like a doctor’s visit for your trees. A certified arborist can identify problems early on, allowing them to recommend proper treatment before they become more serious. Early intervention can save your tree from disease, insect infestations, or other threats. Plus, healthy trees not only look beautiful, but they also add value to your property and contribute to a cleaner environment.

Benefit #4 – Invest in Your Trees Today to Save in the Future

Think of a tree risk assessment as an investment in the future of your trees. By proactively addressing potential problems identified during the assessment, you can avoid the high costs associated with emergency tree removal or extensive repairs after a storm. Catching a minor issue early on can be much more affordable than fixing a larger problem down the road.

Benefit #5 – Sleep Soundly with Confidence

There’s no denying the feeling of security that comes with knowing your trees are healthy and well-maintained. A tree risk assessment from a certified arborist can give you that peace of mind. You can rest assured that the next time the howling wind wakes you up in the middle of the night, your trees will be less likely to threaten your property or loved ones.

Sherlock Tree hard at work! Our South Florida tree care professionals offer comprehensive tree care solutions.

Peace of Mind in Paradise – Schedule Your Tree Risk Assessment with Sherlock Tree Today!

There are many reasons you should call an arborist for help with your trees, and safety is one of the most important. Don’t wait until a hurricane is about to hit before you start thinking about your trees; as the saying goes, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Take the first step in protecting yourself by scheduling a tree risk assessment today. Sherlock Tree has provided superior tree care services to South Florida for more than 40 years, making us experts at keeping your trees healthy and your property safe.

To schedule your tree risk assessment, call Sherlock Tree at 954-788-4000 or fill out our form to request an estimate online.