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A tree growing close to a house can cause problems, but cutting it down isn’t always the best solution. Trees planted close to your home could damage your foundation as their roots grow. In addition, they can drop large branches on your house, make it easier for critters and insects to access your home, and encourage mold growth. But if the tree has been there for a long time, it may not pose a risk to your foundation, and it could be more beneficial—not to mention cheaper—to strategically trim it instead. Your best bet is to consult an arborist for advice.

Unfortunately, palm tree stumps are one of the most difficult types to remove due to how their roots grow. Unlike other trees, palm tree roots grow horizontally and vertically. Palm tree roots grow as deep as three feet into the ground, although soil and growing conditions could mean they go as far as 50 inches into the earth. 

If you want to be able to repurpose the grass in the area where you removed a stump later, you’ll have to dig quite deep—and perhaps wide—to trim away all the roots.

Yes, in most municipalities, arborists or tree surgeons need to hold an arborist’s license, which usually requires specialized education and specific experience. Certified arborists must also pass an exam from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). In addition to a license, you should always confirm that the tree surgeon you’re hiring is fully insured, as this can help you avoid legal problems if the professional gets injured on your property. Keep in mind that some municipalities require tree removal and other services to be completed by a licensed arborist.

It could be anywhere from weeks to years for a dead tree to fall. A dead tree falls based on its weight, how it leans, the state of its roots, the state of decay, and what local windstorms are like, among other factors. Since it’s hard to predict the fall’s timing, it’s important to cut down a dead tree quickly and avoid any unpleasant surprises.