Question: Good morning, Robert. I’m sending this message before sunrise, as I’m seeing that one of our trees is leaning toward the house, with some of the roots lifting out of the ground. As soon as the businesses open, I’ll be making a call, but can you tell me … can I expect them to tell me that the tree can be saved?
I’d rather know ahead of time before they charge me to take the whole thing down, as it is a large tree. We are in the older part of Valencia, so this is a huge, old tree. Can something like this be braced so that it can regain its rooting and be stable? Thank you, hoping for a quick reply.
— Joan C.
Answer: Joan, in all my years I have never heard of such a thing, where a tree can be stabilized after lifting, especially an old, adult tree. I know smaller, young trees can but what you’re describing to me is a complete removal. I don’t think any arborist or tree company will take on the liability of attempting to save a tree like this, especially when it is already leaning toward a home.
Aside from that and more importantly, it is not worth the risk of that tree failing and landing on your home and injuring anyone.
One last thought is your insurance company: I’m confident they’d challenge a payout if you did such a thing. Please get a licensed and insured contractor out ASAP, for removal. Best of luck.
Robert Lamoureux has more than 40 years of experience as a general contractor, with separate licenses in electrical and plumbing contracting. He owns IMS Construction Inc. in Valencia. His opinions are his own, not necessarily those of The Signal. Opinions expressed in this column are not meant to replace the recommendations of a qualified contractor after that contractor has made a thorough visual inspection. Email questions to Robert at [email protected].
