Warning signs
- A new or increasing lean, especially with cracked or heaved soil on the opposite side.
- Large dead branches or a dead top.
- Cracks or splits in the trunk or at a fork.
- Mushrooms or conks at the base, or soft, hollow wood.
- Ash trees with thinning crowns, which in Virginia can point to emerald ash borer.
Defect plus target
Arborists judge risk by two things: how likely the tree or a limb is to fail, and what it would hit. A dead tree in the back woods may be low risk. The same tree over a bedroom is not. An arborist risk assessment puts this in writing, which helps if a neighbor, insurer or HOA is involved.
Removal or a lesser fix?
Sometimes removing a dead limb or reducing the crown solves the problem. When the trunk, roots or main fork is compromised, removal is usually the safer call. Our guide on removing vs. trimming covers the trade-offs.
What it costs
Angi's 2026 national data puts typical tree removal at $200 to $2,000, averaging about $750, with trees up to 30 feet at $150 to $450, 30 to 60 feet at $450 to $1,200, 60 to 80 feet at $800 to $1,500 and over 80 feet at $1,000 to $2,000. These are national figures, not local quotes.
Angi also lists diseased tree removal at $400 to $900, and a crane, when needed, at about $500 extra. Decayed wood can need more rigging and caution, which can raise the price.
Insurance
Insurance rules depend on what the tree hit and on your policy. Our fallen tree insurance guide covers what is usually covered, what to photograph and when to call your insurer.
Near lines and roads
If the tree threatens a utility line, call the utility first. Trees in a VDOT-maintained right-of-way need a VDOT land use permit before trimming or cutting.
Request a quote
Call (540) 904-1819 or use the form. Photos of the whole tree and of what sits under it (house, lines, fence, driveway) help the crew plan equipment before the visit.
Common questions
How do I know if a tree is hazardous?
Watch for a growing lean, dead tops or large dead limbs, trunk cracks, fungus at the base, and hollow or soft wood, then consider what it could hit.
Does insurance pay to remove a dangerous tree?
Usually not before it falls. The III says policies generally cover damage when a tree falls on an insured structure; check your policy.
What does hazard tree removal cost?
Angi's 2026 national data puts typical removal at $200 to $2,000, diseased trees at $400 to $900, plus about $500 if a crane is needed.
Should I get a risk assessment first?
For valuable trees, disputes with neighbors or insurers, or unclear defects, a written arborist assessment is worth it.