Healthy, mature trees are valuable assets that can boost a home’s value and provide a number of benefits. They give privacy, shade, add character and beauty and can be a source of endless fun for kids. But just like us, trees need a bit of TLC and regular check-ups go a long way in keeping them strong and healthy. 

Here we take a look at just how often you should have tree inspections carried out by an Arborist for optimum mature tree health.

What Is A Tree Inspection?

A tree inspection, also known as a tree risk assessment, is a thorough and detailed assessment of a tree’s overall health, condition and structural integrity which is carried out by a suitably qualified Arborist. Inspections aim to catch early signs of disease, structural weakness, root instability, presence of pests, abnormal growth and potential risks or damage that the tree may cause. The objective of a tree inspection is to ensure safety, provide a clear view of the tree’s current and future state and provide a care and maintenance plan for the homeowner to best avoid risk and damage.

There are different levels of inspections ranging from a basic visual inspection through to an advanced assessment using various diagnostic tools and equipment. Your Arborist will advise which is most appropriate based on your tree and circumstances.

Why Tree Inspections Are Important

Tree inspections are important for a variety of reasons:

• To ensure the safety of your home and family.
• To catch signs of ill health and structural weakness.
• To monitor changes and track health patterns.
• Prevention is almost always better (and cheaper!) than emergency tree work.

How Often Should You Have Your Trees Inspected?

As a general rule, it is recommended that mature trees be inspected by a qualified Arborist at least once every 12 months, more often if the tree is identified as being high risk. This is to ensure that any issues are caught early and so that preventative care is carried out before minor issues turn into big problems. As mature trees are more prone to structural weakness, decay and disease, yearly inspections promote safety and tree health.

When Tree Inspections Are Particularly Important

In addition to yearly tree inspections, it is highly recommended to have trees assessed in the following circumstances:

• Following severe storms to assess any damage and potential risks
• Following extreme weather conditions such as drought or flooding
• If you notice changes in your tree that could indicate ill health
• When purchasing a new home so you’re aware of any potential issues
• Before carrying out renovations
• When trees are located close to your home, powerlines, pool, high traffic areas or other structures
• Certain tree species may be more prone to issues. Be sure to check with your Arborist what their recommendation is for your particular tree  
• If your tree has had past issues or previous damage
• If you notice changes in your tree such as cracked bark, leaf loss, fungus at the base of the tree, increase in deadwood, sudden leaning, signs of pests, exposed roots or thinning canopy

Get A Professional Tree Inspection

For all your professional tree inspection and maintenance needs, speak to the team at Aussie Tree Solutions today. Our team of tree care professionals have been taking care of South-East Queensland trees for over forty years and we provide a full range of services from tree pruning to tree removals, Consulting Arborist services to mulch and everything in between! Whatever your tree care issues, we’ll get to the root of it.