After more than two decades of caring for trees across the South Shore, one of the most common questions our team at Top Notch Tree hears during consultations with homeowners is:
“Should I remove this tree?”
While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer as to why you should remove a tree, homeowners across Plymouth County remove trees for all kinds of reasons. Whether it’s storm damage, safety concerns, or making space for new projects, we will walk you through your options and help you make the best decision for your property’s future.
Key Takeaways:
- Trees with dead branches, deep trunk cracks, or a worsening lean can become major hazards and should be removed before they cause damage.
- If a tree is severely weakened by infestations, fungal decay, or root disease, removal may be the best option to protect your property and nearby trees.
- Trees growing too close to utility lines can cause outages and safety risks, and homeowners are often responsible for addressing the issue.
- Whether it’s blocking sunlight, damaging foundations, or creating constant cleanup, a tree that’s more trouble than it’s worth might need to go.
6 Reasons to Remove a Tree on Your South Shore Property
Trees are a defining feature of South Shore landscapes. They shade our homes, create privacy from neighbors, and give our properties character. But sometimes, even the most well-loved trees start causing problems.
Maybe that towering maple has begun leaning more than it used to, or you’re tired of clearing out clogged gutters every other week. Whatever your situation, deciding whether to remove a tree isn’t always clear cut.
1. Hazardous Trees Must Go
When it comes to tree care, nothing matters more than safety. A tall, mature tree can be a beautiful asset to your property, but if it’s structurally compromised, it can quickly turn into a serious risk.
Signs that a tree may be unsafe include:
- Large dead branches hanging over your home, driveway, or walkways
- Deep cracks in the trunk, not just surface level bark splits
- Multiple weakly attached trunks that could split apart
- A tree that’s leaning, especially if the ground is lifting on one side
- Dead or dying trees that could topple in the next storm
2. Disease and Pest Problems
Just like people, trees can develop serious health issues. Many tree problems can be effectively treated with proper care; however, some conditions are simply too severe or advanced to overcome. Here’s what to watch for:
- Severe insect infestations that have compromised the tree’s structure
- Fungal diseases that have caused extensive decay
- Bacterial infections that can spread to other trees
- Root diseases that affect tree stability
3. Utility Line Conflicts
Living in New England means dealing with our fair share of storms and power outages. Trees interfering with power lines are often the culprit behind these service disruptions. Many homeowners assume the utility company will handle all tree-related power line issues, but that’s not always the case.
Here are a few instances where a tree may need to be removed to prevent utility line conflicts:
- Frequent power outages during storms
- Branches touching or growing through utility lines
- Trees that repeatedly need trimming away from lines
- Trees that will eventually grow into power lines
- Multiple service disruptions due to falling branches
While utility companies manage tree work near primary lines, homeowners are typically responsible for those affecting service lines to their homes. Addressing these issues as soon as possible can help prevent future outages and costly damage.
4. Property Damage Concerns
Trees and buildings don’t always mix well. While trees add tremendous value to your property, they can also cause significant damage if they’re too close to structures or underground utilities. We regularly help homeowners assess potential risks before they become expensive problems, such as:
- Roots damaging foundations, driveways, or walkways
- Roots infiltrating sewer or water lines
- Branches rubbing against roofs or siding
- Trees near a house
- Trees blocking important drainage paths
5. Property Use & Lifestyle Considerations
Sometimes a perfectly healthy tree just doesn’t fit with how you use your property. That’s okay – your yard should work for your lifestyle, and if a tree is making it difficult to enjoy your space, removal might be the best choice.
Here are some common reasons homeowners remove trees to improve their property’s functionality and enjoyment:
- Excessive leaf or debris cleanup that’s become a burden
- Trees blocking sunlight from gardens or solar panels
- Branches overhanging play areas or pools
- Trees dropping messy fruit or creating allergy problems
6. Construction & Development Needs
As the South Shore area continues to grow and develop, so do the needs of homeowners and sometimes trees need to be removed to accommodate these changes. Tree removal may be necessary for:
- Home additions or new construction
- Driveway or parking area expansion
- Septic system installations
- Pool or patio installations
- Creating more usable yard space
- Meeting local zoning requirements
Not Sure If a Tree Should Stay or Go? Let’s Talk.
Deciding whether to remove a tree isn’t always easy, and every situation is unique. That’s why we take the time to listen, assess, and guide you toward the best decision for your property. Jeff Van Meter, Certified Arborist and owner of Top Notch Tree, believes in a personal, hands-on approach:
“It’s just so specific to your property. What I really want to do is come by, have a conversation, meet at the house, talk about it, and find out what is the best solution for you.”
Our goal isn’t just to remove trees – it’s to provide honest, professional guidance so you can make the right choice with confidence. If you’re looking for an expert opinion you can trust, give Top Notch Tree a call at 781-871-8008 today to schedule a consultation.
