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Not all leaning trees are dangerous, but they can be a hazard as gravity may eventually cause them to fall. A key factor is whether the lean is new or has been present for a long time. Trees that have grown with a lean for years are not typically an immediate danger, but a sudden lean is a cause for concern as it often indicates weakening roots. If a tree is leaning more than 15% from vertical, you should consider having it straightened or transplanted. To be safe, it's always best to hire a professional arborist to inspect any leaning tree to assess the risk and avoid potential accidents.

An arborist specializes in tree care, performing tasks such as pruning, treating diseases, and removing hazardous trees. They also assess soil conditions, plant trees, and develop landscaping plans to ensure healthy growth. They also manage debris cleanup, inspect equipment, and record maintenance activities. Arborists often collaborate with landscapers and professional tree maintenance services, applying their specialized knowledge and problem-solving skills to maintain tree health and safety.

We don’t recommend DIY tree trimming for a few different reasons. First, the tools required to trim a tree can be costly, up to $1,100 or more, for the ladders and specialized saws needed. 

Safety is another concern, especially when working with more mature trees. As a guideline, you should only DIY tree trimming when branches are less than two inches in diameter. Any more, and the safety risk becomes too high, which could lead to catastrophe. For this job, it’s safest to let a tree-trimming professional assess the work needed.

A standard tree removal doesn’t include stump grinding. If you want your contractor to remove your tree and grind the stump, you must pay an extra charge. That said, you’ll likely save on the cost of stand-alone service—especially if it’s a small tree and they can finish both jobs in a single trip.