Emergency & Storm Work
Dangerous TreeRemoval AcrossStafford & Staffordshire.
Diseased, decayed or structurally compromised — when a tree becomes a hazard, we remove it safely with the right method for its specific condition.
✓ QTRA-trained risk assessment · 15+ years aerial experience · £5m insured
What is Dangerous Tree Removal?
A 'dangerous' tree isn't always obvious. A perfectly healthy-looking oak can have hidden butt rot. An ash with no leaves left in summer may be dieback-affected and brittle. A leaning conifer may have lost half its root plate to a leaking drain. Identifying which trees are genuinely hazardous — and how to remove them safely — is what we do.
Our approach starts with assessment: visual inspection, percussion testing (hammer on trunk to find hollows), and where appropriate, instrumented decay testing. Once we know what we're dealing with, we choose a removal method that matches the risk: climbing if safe, MEWP if not, crane if neither.
Most dangerous trees can be removed within a week of survey. Genuinely critical hazards are dealt with same-day under our emergency service.
Who It's For
- Homeowners worried about a leaning, dead or decaying tree
- Schools, care homes and businesses managing duty of care
- Highways and councils dealing with roadside hazards
- Insurers requiring make-safe of identified hazardous trees
When It's Needed
- Visible cracks, splits or fungal brackets on the trunk
- Tree dropping branches without obvious cause
- Sudden lean following heavy rain or wind
- Ash dieback symptoms (sparse canopy, dieback from tips)
- Following a survey or inspection identifying hazard
What Happens If You Leave It
Property owners have a legal duty of care for trees on their land. If a known dangerous tree fails and injures someone, the owner can be liable — and 'I didn't know it was dangerous' is a weak defence if the signs were visible. Documented inspection and timely removal protect you legally as well as physically.
Trying to climb a structurally compromised tree is how arborists die. Ash dieback in particular makes the wood brittle — it snaps under climber load with no warning. Honest assessment of climb-ability is the first step.
Our 5-Step Process
Free Site Inspection
We visit, listen and assess access, hazards and surrounding structures before quoting a single penny.
Written Diagnosis & Quote
You get a clear scope of works, fixed price and method statement — usually within 24 hours of the visit.
Scheduled Visit
We agree a date that suits you, confirm the day before and arrive on time with the right kit and crew.
Safe Execution
Risk assessments and permits handled. Roping, rigging and cutting carried out to NPTC and BS 3998 standards.
Clearance & Sign-Off
All arisings removed (or chipped/logged for you), site swept clean, photos sent and invoice issued.
Why Choose RJ Hutchinson
Honest Risk Assessment
QTRA methodology; we tell you what's truly dangerous and what isn't.
Right Method For The Tree
Climbing, MEWP or crane — chosen based on actual condition, not budget.
Decay Testing Available
Sonic and resistograph testing for high-value trees worth saving if possible.
Council Liaison
TPO-protected dangerous trees handled with proper notification.
Insurance Documentation
Reports suitable for property and public liability claims.
Same-Week Removal
Genuine hazards prioritised; routine within 7 days of quote.
Dangerous Tree Removal: The Full Detail
Identifying Genuinely Dangerous Trees
Real warning signs: fungal brackets at the base (Ganoderma, Meripilus, Inonotus); large vertical cracks on the trunk; cavities at branch unions; leaning more than 15° following recent weather; dropping live branches in calm conditions; mushrooms at the root flare; sudden complete leaf loss out of season.
Things that look alarming but usually aren't dangerous: deadwood in the upper canopy (normal); slight lean that's been there for years; epicormic shoots on the trunk; bark inclusions at branch unions in young trees.
Ash Dieback Specifically
Hymenoscyphus fraxineus has now spread to nearly all UK ash. Affected trees lose vigour over 5–10 years before becoming dangerous. Key sign: progressively sparse canopy from tips inward, dark lesions on stems, tufting of new growth at the base.
Ash dieback wood becomes brittle quickly — climbing risk increases each year. Early removal (while still climb-safe) is significantly cheaper than later MEWP or crane work. Across Staffordshire, most mature ash will need removal within the next 5–10 years.
Every job is covered by £5m Public Liability Insurance and carried out under method statements and risk assessments tailored to your site.
Dangerous Tree Removal — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my tree is dangerous?+
Visible cracks, fungal brackets, sudden lean, dropping live limbs are all warning signs. We'll inspect for free and tell you honestly.
How fast can it be removed?+
Critical hazards: same day. Routine: within 7 days.
What if it has a TPO?+
Dangerous trees can be removed without delay under TPO regulations — we handle the council notification.
How much does it cost?+
Typically £400–£2,500 depending on size, method and access.
Will my insurance cover it?+
Some policies do; check yours. Make-safe documentation provided either way.
Can the tree be saved?+
Sometimes — sonic testing reveals usable wood beneath decay. We'll always look for an alternative to felling if possible.
Are you qualified to assess hazard?+
Yes — QTRA-aware, NPTC certified, with 15+ years of decision-making in the trees.
What about ash dieback specifically?+
We've removed hundreds of dieback ash. Honest advice on timing and method.
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Ready For a Free Quote on Dangerous Tree Removal?
Free site visit, fixed-price written quote, no pressure. Call directly or send a few details — most quotes back within 24 hours.