Should I Remove a Tree Close to My House?

The tree is too close to a house or other structure, and it may need to be removed or pruned regularly. In general, large trees should be at least 20 feet away from a house or building. Trees provide shade, beauty, purify the air, reduce runoff and erosion, and can even lower your utility bills. For the value of the house and for the enjoyment of your garden, it is not recommended to remove trees unless they are dangerously tilted toward your house or completely dead.

It is important to know what type of tree is near your property before contacting professionals so they can properly assess the situation. Professionals can analyze the overall system and help you make decisions about the future of your trees and foundations. Losing your new home or spending thousands of dollars to repair it because a tree damaged your house is heartbreaking. It is important to keep in mind that removing trees isn't usually necessary when the tree is only close to your house and not actually on it.

Live oak trees can live for hundreds of years, while some varieties of elms are large trees that only have a life expectancy of about 40 years. Pruning trees might be a better solution for you, as it can help prevent potential damage in the future. Evergreen trees, which don't lose their leaves in winter, help insulate houses by blocking the wind. If it's a tree that can still live a significant number of years, pruning and shaping it could help to control or guide its growth a little, as well as keep it attractive and in good health.

If your tree falls due to a natural disaster, it's usually covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. If the tree poses a risk to your home or property, it's best to remove it before something bad happens. Verifying that the trees on your new property do not eventually damage your home should be included in the list of important questions to answer before signing the final documentation. The first step in the process is to identify what type of tree you have before contacting professionals. Moving has some advantages, including eliminating risks, and is generally the best option for dealing with them.