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Trees growing within 10 to 15 feet of your house pose serious risks, so it’s worth considering removing them. First, branches that hang over and touch your roof can promote roof damage and moss accumulation, which can lead to leaking. Second, they drop debris into your gutters, leading to clogs and overflow that can promote foundation leaks. Finally, the root systems can grow into your home’s foundation, sometimes putting enough pressure on them that the concrete wall cracks, leaving you with structural damage. As such, it’s often a good idea to remove trees growing close to your home.

Hiring an arborist is usually more expensive than hiring a standard tree company, but it’s typically well worth the investment. If you suspect a tree is infested or diseased, hiring an arborist can help avoid the same fate for nearby trees, and prevent removal. Arborists might also be necessary if you’re dealing with tree removal or trimming near power lines, as uncertified removal companies often aren’t permitted to service these trees. Finally, if your aim is to preserve the health of your trees, an arborist is absolutely worth the money.

In most cases, leaving tree roots underground is not a problem if the stump has been removed or ground below the soil. However, some larger roots may decompose, leaving dents in your soil. Additionally, some aggressive trees, including willows, oaks, elms, maples, and poplars may grow back from roots. Large aggressive trees with established root systems are more likely to grow back.

You don’t always need a permit to grind a stump, but you might need one depending on your location and the stump’s surroundings. Permits are often needed if the stump is part of a protected tree species, near public areas or utility lines, or close to environmentally sensitive zones like wetlands. Some cities also regulate noise and work hours. Always check local rules before grinding, and contact your city or county office if you're unsure.