When assessing a tree's risk of failure we must sometimes look for the finer signs and symptoms that may indicate a tree's potential to fail. The convenience of giant decay conks, broken roots, and huge decayed cavities may not always be evident on a tree that presents a high risk of failure.
Let's look at some pictures of a tree that from a distance may seem fine, but upon closer inspection proved to be cause for alarm.
![](http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QZthbGZrZIk/UjJk60S85gI/AAAAAAAAAQo/qizI05D1ysA/s640/soil+heave+and+lean.JPG) |
Notice the soil heaving on the tension side of the lean. |
![](http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-poFiKtMZzg8/UjJk_0hFijI/AAAAAAAAAQw/AJVLtZojIz4/s400/sawdust.JPG) |
Saw dust or frass present on several areas around on the lower trunk. When sounded with a hammer decay was detected. |
![](http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dzPyLZ-5Rbg/UjJlILULYtI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/XK9BQXyr1W0/s640/Armillaria.JPG) |
Small armillaria fruiting bodies protruding from the root flare of the tree on the tension side of the lean. Armillaria root rot is a serious structural root decaying fungus which results in a white rot. |
From a distance this willow oak has a perfectly green and balanced canopy, and is in a beautifully maintained yard. Upon closer inspection the tree described above displays some serious evidence of strength loss. Further proof that when walking a property, we can take nothing for granted.