A tree inspection is a professional assessment of a tree’s health, structure and safety – usually carried out before a permit application, ahead of a property sale, after storm damage, or simply because a tree is showing signs something might be wrong. Regular inspection catches problems early, before they become a safety risk or a much bigger job.
What a Tree Inspection Covers
A proper inspection looks at the whole tree, not just what’s visible from the ground:
- Visual assessment – canopy health, leaf colour and density, deadwood, cracks, cavities and signs of decay.
- Structural assessment – lean, root plate movement, included bark and weak branch unions that could fail.
- Root collar and soil – signs of root damage, soil compaction, or root issues affecting stability.
- Advanced diagnostics where needed – tools like resistograph testing (measuring internal wood density to detect decay) or sonic tomography (mapping internal decay using sound waves) for a closer look when a visual inspection isn’t conclusive.
Signs a Tree May Need Inspection
- Leaning that’s new or has worsened
- Cracked, peeling or damaged bark
- Dead or dying branches in the canopy
- Visible fungal growth or signs of decay at the base or trunk
- Sudden changes in leaf colour, size or density
Why Get a Tree Inspection?
Beyond safety, a documented inspection is often what’s needed for council permit applications, insurance purposes, or due diligence before buying or developing a property. A written arborist report gives you evidence-based findings and recommendations, not just a verbal opinion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should a tree be inspected?
At least once a year for most established trees, with more frequent checks for large, aging or high-risk trees, or after severe weather.
What qualifications should a tree inspector have?
Look for certification from a recognised arboriculture body, hands-on tree care experience, and solid knowledge of local species and common disease and decay patterns.
What happens if a tree is found to be unsafe?
A qualified arborist will recommend the appropriate next step – which might be pruning, cabling, pest or disease treatment, or removal if the risk can’t be managed another way.
Simpsons Tree Service provides professional tree inspections and arborist reports across Melbourne’s north eastern suburbs. See our arborist reports service or get in touch for a free quote.
