New Year Tree Inspection Checklist for West Hartford, CT

Most people don’t think about their trees until something goes wrong. Whether it's a branch that comes down or a tree that starts leaning. Or even a storm hits and suddenly there’s a problem that could’ve been avoided. This is the exact reason why the start of the year is actually one of the best times to walk your property and take a closer look at your trees — especially here in West Hartford, Farmington, Bristol, Avon and Wethersfield, where such frigid, winter weather can quietly weaken trees without leaving obvious signs.

New Year Tree Inspection Checklist for West Hartford & Surrounding Areas

Most people don’t think about their trees until something goes wrong.

Whether it's a branch that comes down or a tree that starts leaning.

Or even a storm hits and suddenly there’s a problem that could’ve been avoided.

This is the exact reason why the start of the year is actually one of the best times to walk your property and take a closer look at your trees — especially here in West Hartford, Farmington, Bristol, Avon and Wethersfield, where such frigid, winter weather can quietly weaken trees without leaving obvious signs.

Let’s have a quick break down of what you should be looking for.

Look Up First: Dead or Hanging Branches

Winter storms are rough on trees. Snow and ice add weight, and wind does the rest.

If you see:

• Branches with no buds

• Limbs hanging lower than they used to

• Cracks where branches meet the trunk

That’s a warning sign. Even a healthy-looking tree can drop a limb when temperatures swing or strong winds roll through. If branches are over your roof, driveway, or sidewalk, it’s worth addressing sooner rather than later.

Check the Trunk for Changes

Tree trunks don’t heal the way people think they do.

Take a slow walk around the tree and look for:

• Any new cracks or splits

• Bark peeling off in large sections

• Soft or hollow-sounding areas

These issues often mean internal decay. And decay doesn’t fix itself. It spreads.

If the trunk looks different than it did last year, trust that instinct.

Pay Attention to Leaning Trees

There are some trees that grow at a slight angle and stay that way for decades.

Others… don’t.

If a tree is suddenly leaning more than it used to or the ground around it looks lifted or uneven, that’s a serious red flag. This often points to root failure, especially after heavy rain or frozen ground.

In these cases, emergency tree removal in West Hartford or nearby towns may be the safest option.

Don’t Ignore the Roots

You can tell a lot from your trees' roots.

Check for:

• Soil pulling away from the base

• Mushrooms or fungus near the trunk

• Roots breaking through sidewalks or driveways

Root damage can affect stability and nearby structures. It’s also one of the most common reasons trees fail during storms.

Trees Near Power Lines Need Extra Attention

If you have trees growing close to utility lines, inspections matter even more.

When branches grow too close to power lines, storms can quickly turn them into a problem—outages, sparks, even emergencies. Utilities handle some trimming, but homeowners are often on the hook for trees on their own property.

If you’re on the fence, having a professional take a look can clarify what needs to be handled right away and what isn’t urgent.

When to Call a Professional

If something feels “off” it probably is.

You should reach out to a tree service if:

• A tree looks unstable

• Large branches hang over your home

• You’ve had recent storm damage

• You’re unsure whether a tree is safe

At ALX Tree Service, we provide honest tree inspections, tree trimming, and emergency tree services throughout West Hartford and surrounding towns. No pressure. Just straight answers and safe solutions.

Start the Year With Peace of Mind

A quick tree inspection now can save you from major repairs later.

If you’re in West Hartford, Farmington, Bristol, Avon or Wethersfield and want a professional opinion, give ALX Tree Service a call. We’ll help you start the year knowing your trees aren’t a problem waiting to happen.