Signs Your Tree Might Be a Hazard
1. Dead or Dying Branches
Do you notice large, lifeless branches hanging off your tree? Dead limbs are a major red flag. Not only can they fall at any time, they also indicate that the tree might be struggling to stay healthy. If several branches are in poor shape, it may be time to call an expert in tree service Ottawa, Ontario to assess whether removal is necessary. Tip: Dead branches are especially dangerous during strong windstorms or heavy snowfalls—typical Ottawa weather conditions! Better safe than sorry.2. Visible Decay or Damage
Decay doesn’t just make a tree look unpleasant; it weakens its structure, turning a once-majestic tree into a potential hazard. Look for signs like:- Soft, crumbly wood at the base of the trunk.
- Large fungi or mushrooms growing around the roots.
- Significant holes or cracks in the bark.

3. Leaning or Tilting
A slightly leaning tree is often nothing to worry about—it may just have grown towards sunlight. However, if your tree starts to lean unexpectedly or at a sharp angle, it could be a sign of root damage or an unstable foundation. This is particularly worrisome if the tree is leaning towards your house, a power line, or a playground.4. Roots Causing Structural Problems
Roots are the foundation of every tree, but they don’t always play nicely with human-made structures. Overgrown or invasive roots can crack driveways, damage plumbing, or disrupt your home’s foundation. If a tree’s roots are creating expensive headaches, removal might save you future hassles.5. Pests and Infestations
Seeing more bugs than usual buzzing around your tree? Pests like termites, ants, or beetles can infest unhealthy trees. Left unchecked, they can spread to your other trees—or worse, your home! If your tree is a magnet for unwanted visitors, consider contacting a professional tree service in Ottawa, Ontario, to discuss removal options.6. Storm Damage
Ottawa is no stranger to intense weather, from heavy winds to freezing ice storms. After a storm, check your trees for branches that have snapped or large splits in the trunk. Severe storm damage can compromise the safety and stability of a tree, making removal a wise decision.Why Call a Professional for Tree Removal?
Tree removal is not a DIY activity. It’s risky, requires specialized tools, and must comply with local regulations. Hiring a professional Ottawa tree removal company ensures that:- The job is done safely and efficiently.
- The stump is properly handled—whether you want it ground down or completely removed.
- The site is cleaned up afterward (because no one likes leftover debris in their yard!).
Protect Your Property with Expert Tree Services in Ottawa
Whether it’s cleaning up after a storm, addressing invasive roots, or dealing with a dying tree, knowing when to remove a tree can protect your family and property. If you’re noticing any of the signs listed above, don’t wait to get it checked out. Reach out to a trusted tree service in Ottawa, Ontario and keep your outdoor space safe and beautiful. Need expert advice?Contact our team of tree care experts at ZZ Chop today for a consultation. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your trees—and your peace of mind!Cheapest time of year to have a tree cut down
The cheapest time of year to have a tree cut down is usually late winter through early spring, roughly between January and March in most regions. During this period, tree service companies often experience a slowdown in business, which means they are more likely to offer discounts or flexible pricing to keep their crews working.
Additionally, since most trees are dormant in winter, there are no leaves to deal with, making the job faster and easier for professionals. The ground is often frozen, allowing heavy equipment to move without damaging your lawn or landscape, further reducing cleanup costs. Scheduling tree removal before spring growth also makes it easier to identify dead or hazardous branches that could pose a risk once storms or high winds arrive.
On the other hand, summer and fall are considered peak seasons for tree work, with higher demand due to storm cleanups, landscaping projects, and safety maintenance—so prices tend to increase.
By planning ahead and booking your removal service in late winter, you can often save 10–30% compared to peak-season rates.
Should I cut down tree close to house?
Cutting down a tree close to your house can be a smart move — but only if it poses a real risk or is causing structural issues. The decision depends on several key factors:
If the tree is leaning toward your home, has cracked branches, root damage, or shows signs of disease or decay, it could become dangerous during storms or high winds. Falling branches or the entire tree could damage your roof, siding, windows, or even your foundation. In that case, removal is often the safest choice.
However, if the tree is healthy and stable, it may actually provide benefits — such as shade, energy savings, and increased property value. Cutting it down unnecessarily could expose your home to more heat, reduce curb appeal, and even increase soil erosion near your foundation.
It’s best to have a certified arborist inspect the tree before deciding. They can assess root spread, trunk stability, and branch structure to determine whether trimming, cabling, or full removal is the right solution.
Tree Trimming vs Tree Removal: What’s the Difference?
Aspect | Tree Trimming | Tree Removal |
---|---|---|
Purpose | Maintains shape, structure, and health | Eliminates hazardous, dead, or unwanted trees |
Goal | Encourage healthy growth and enhance aesthetics | Protect property and prevent safety risks |
When to Do It | Late winter to early spring or mid-summer | When the tree is dead, diseased, or structurally unsafe |
Tools Used | Pruning shears, loppers, and saws | Chainsaws, rigging ropes, cranes, stump grinders |
Best For | Healthy trees needing maintenance | Trees posing risks to property or people |
Result | Improved tree health and curb appeal | Safe removal and open space for replanting or landscaping |
Professional Help? | Recommended for large or high branches | Always — due to safety, permits, and heavy equipment needs |
FAQs About Tree Removal in Ottawa
1. How do I know if my tree needs to be removed?
A tree may need removal if it has dead or decaying branches, a leaning trunk, root damage, or signs of pest infestation. If it poses a safety hazard or threatens property structures, professional removal is often the best choice.
2. Can a damaged tree be saved instead of removed?
Sometimes, yes. If the damage is minor, trimming, cabling, or disease treatment may save the tree. However, if more than 50% of the tree is structurally compromised, removal is the safer long-term solution.
3. Do I need a permit for tree removal in Ottawa?
Yes, in many cases. The City of Ottawa’s Tree Protection By-law requires a permit if your tree meets certain size or location criteria. A professional tree service like ZZ Chop Tree Care can help you handle permit requirements before removal.
4. What’s the cheapest time of year to have a tree cut down in Ottawa?
The most cost-effective time is late winter to early spring (January to March). During this slower season, tree companies often offer discounted rates, and frozen ground allows easier access for equipment without lawn damage.
5. Should I remove a tree close to my house?
Only if it poses a threat. Trees with leaning trunks, invasive roots, or diseased branches near your home can cause structural or safety issues. An arborist can assess whether removal or selective pruning is the best approach.
6. How long does professional tree removal take?
Depending on the size, location, and condition of the tree, removal can take a few hours to a full day. Larger or more complex jobs (especially those near power lines or structures) require additional time for safety and precision.
7. What happens after a tree is removed?
After removal, professionals can grind the stump, clear debris, and recycle wood into mulch or firewood. Stump grinding prevents regrowth and improves yard appearance — a popular add-on for Ottawa homeowners.
Noah is a dedicated tree care professional based in Ottawa, Canada, specializing in tree cutting, pruning, and lot clearing. As the founder of ZZ Chop Canada, he has built a reputation for providing safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible tree services to residential and commercial clients across the region. With years of hands-on experience, Noah combines practical expertise with a passion for helping communities maintain healthy, beautiful landscapes. Through the ZZ Chop Canada website, he shares insights, tips, and updates on tree care, aiming to educate and inspire homeowners and businesses alike.