Tree Risk Assessment Services in Des Moines and Central Iowa
Healthy trees add beauty and value to your property, but weak or unstable trees can create serious safety risks. Storms, age, decay, disease, and structural defects can cause a tree to fail without warning. At Top Notch Tree Care, we provide professional tree risk assessments designed to identify hazards early and protect your home, family, and property.
With more than four decades of experience serving Des Moines and surrounding Central Iowa, our licensed and insured team uses industry-approved evaluation methods to determine whether your trees are safe or in need of corrective care.
What Is a Tree Risk Assessment?
A tree risk assessment is a detailed inspection that evaluates the condition of a tree and determines the likelihood of it failing. Our arborists look at structural integrity, root stability, canopy weight, environmental conditions, and potential targets below the tree. The goal is simple: detect problems early so you can prevent accidents and avoid costly damage.
Why Tree Risk Assessments Matter
Our Tree Risk Assessment Process
Step 1: Initial Walkthrough
We begin by inspecting your property, understanding your concerns, and evaluating the overall health and structure of each tree.
Step 2: Ground-Level Inspection
We examine the base, soil, trunk, bark integrity, root flare, and any visible signs of decay or instability.
Step 3: Canopy and Branch Analysis
Using binoculars, bucket trucks, or climbing equipment, we assess upper branches and areas not visible from the ground.
Step 4: Hazard Identification
We pinpoint issues that could lead to failure, including dead limbs, heavy overhang, disease, root weakness, or cracking.
Step 5: Recommendations and Corrective Actions
Based on our findings, we may recommend structural pruning, deadwood removal, soil improvement, lightning protection, regular monitoring, tree removal for high-risk cases.
Step 6: Written Documentation
If needed, we provide documentation that outlines findings, recommended solutions, and risk level — helpful for insurance, property management, or real estate transactions.
Why Choose Top Notch Tree Care for Risk Assessment
40+ Years of Local Tree Expertise: We understand Iowa’s tree species, soil types, storm patterns, and common structural failures.
Licensed and Insured: Your property and trees are in safe hands with a fully insured team that follows industry standards.
Advanced Tools & Equipment: We use professional gear for visual inspections, canopy evaluations, and structural analysis.
Unbiased, Honest Recommendations: We only recommend what your trees genuinely need. Our goal is safety and long-term health — not unnecessary removal.
Trusted by Homeowners Across Central Iowa: Our reputation is built on consistent results, transparent communication, and long-term customer relationships.
Top Notch Tree Care provides tree risk assessments throughout Des Moines and nearby metro communities. Primary hubs include Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Waukee, Clive, Johnston, and Altoona.
We also serve expansion areas such as Grimes, Norwalk, Pleasant Hill, Indianola, Bondurant, Perry, Carlisle, Adel, Polk City, Windsor Heights, and Newton. If you are within seventy-five miles of Des Moines, we can usually schedule a prompt assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions: Tree Risk Assessment
How do I know if I need a tree risk assessment?
What are the biggest signs a tree is unsafe?
Do all risky trees need to be removed?
What if the tree is near power lines?
How long does a tree risk inspection take?
Schedule a Professional Tree Risk Assessment Today
If you are unsure about the safety of a tree on your property, don’t wait until it becomes an emergency. Our trained team will evaluate the risk and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution.
Contact Top Notch Tree Care today for expert tree risk assessment across Central Iowa.