Tree and site inspection checklist

Tree and site inspection checklist

Root zone


Mushrooms present an the base of tree(sign of root rot)
Cracks near foot flare
Lack of root flare
Soil mounding(tree failing)


Trunk


Mushrooms and conks
Cracks and cacvities(use a rubber mallet for ‘sounding’ the trunk)
Vines- can be poisonous(posion ivy/oak) and often obscure other hazards
Loose bark
Swellings or depressions


Tree crown
hangers(lodged branches)
Dead and weak branches
Weak branch attachment
cracks/splits along stem, branch,or where branches are attached
Stinging insects(look and listen)-rap on trunk with mallet to arouse activity
Electrical conductors(often concealed by foliage and therefore are not readily visible)


Storm related situations
Tree parts under point of pressure and tension
Lodged branches-be particularly alert for hangers found near or blocking the climbing route.
Ice,snow,or wet limbs-create slippery climbing conditions and hide tree defects

Climbing and work site
Look for potential targets, obstructions, and hazards such as:
Structures: buildings, decks, etc.
vehicles(parked or moving)
Sidewalks and driveways
Septic system and drain fields
Presence of lawn ornaments, lawn furniture, clothes lines, play areas, bird feeders, and landscape lighting.
Young trees and shrubs, flower beds, and other landscape items.
Satellite dishes and antennas.
Electrical hazards.
Wet and muddy areas.
Poisonous plant.
Extreme slopes.
People in the area(homeowner, bystanders).