A Closer Look at Tree Conditions and Risk
Visible damage, declining branches, or changes around a tree can raise questions about its potential to fail and what could be affected. A Level 2 inspection provides a structured evaluation of an individual tree and its surroundings.
Eric Putnam BCMA Inc. provides Level 2 tree inspections throughout Greater Houston and the Gulf Coast. We examine accessible conditions from ground level, assess relevant risk factors, and explain recommendations for managing the concerns identified.
Understanding Level 2 Tree Inspections
Evaluating the Tree and What Surrounds It
A Level 2 inspection is a basic tree risk assessment that includes a detailed visual examination of the tree and surrounding site. The assessment considers visible conditions in the crown, branches, trunk, root collar, and accessible root zone.
Risk also depends on what could be struck if a tree or branch fails. Nearby buildings, roads, walkways, parked vehicles, and areas used by people are considered alongside the tree’s condition.
When a Level 2 Inspection May Be Appropriate
Consider an inspection when you notice:
- Dead, broken, or hanging branches.
- Cracks, cavities, or visible decay.
- A new lean or changes around the base.
- Root damage or nearby excavation.
- Unusual movement or soil lifting.
- Changes following a storm.
- Concerns about a tree near a home, roadway, or frequently used space.
- A need for documented risk findings and management recommendations.
Keep people away from a tree or branch that appears unstable while arranging professional assistance.
Our Level 2 Tree Inspection Process
Establish the Assessment Scope
We identify the trees to be assessed, the concerns involved, the areas that could be affected, and the period the assessment will address. Relevant history and recent site changes are discussed before the inspection.
Inspect the Tree and Site
We examine the tree from accessible ground-level viewpoints, walking around it where conditions allow. Simple tools may be used to investigate visible concerns, but the inspection does not reveal every internal or concealed condition.
Evaluate Risk Factors
We consider the likelihood of an assessed tree or branch failing, the likelihood of it striking an identified target, and the potential consequences during the stated assessment period.
Explain Findings and Recommendations
We communicate the findings, limitations, and available management options. Recommendations may include pruning, changes to how nearby areas are used, monitoring, removal, or a more advanced assessment.
Do You Already Know Which Tree Evaluation You Need?
Request a Level 2 Inspection when you need a structured assessment of tree risk based on accessible ground-level conditions. A Level 3 Tree Risk Assessment may be appropriate when a specific concern requires advanced investigation.
When Advanced Assessment May Be Needed
Some concerns cannot be adequately evaluated from ground level. Suspected internal decay, concealed root conditions, or defects high in the crown may require additional investigation. A Level 3 assessment can be scoped to investigate a specific question using appropriate methods. Advanced work is recommended when the additional information may help guide a management decision.
Why Clients Choose Eric Putnam BCMA Inc. for Level 2 Tree Inspections
Structured Evaluation
We consider the tree, surrounding site, potential targets, and assessment period when evaluating risk.
Practical Management Recommendations
Recommendations address the concerns identified and the options available for reducing risk.
Clear Scope and Limitations
We explain what was inspected, what could not be evaluated, and whether further investigation or reassessment is recommended.
What Our Customers Say
When it comes to the care of your trees and yard, we understand how important it is to find a tree expert you can trust. Thanks to our personalized and professional approach with our arborist visits and tree consultations, our customers rest easy knowing their tree’s health will always be our top priority. See what some of our clients had to say:
Service Warranty and Disclaimer
View Our Warranty and Disclaimer
Common Questions About Level 2 Tree Inspections
Is a Level 2 inspection the same as a tree health evaluation?
Not exactly. Tree health may be relevant to the findings, but a Level 2 tree risk assessment focuses on potential failure, what could be struck, and the consequences. A separate health evaluation may be appropriate for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Does the inspection include climbing the tree?
A Level 2 inspection is performed from ground level. A climbing inspection may be recommended as part of an advanced assessment when closer examination of the crown is needed.
Does the inspection include internal decay testing?
Specialized internal testing is generally part of a separately scoped advanced assessment. A Level 2 inspection may identify visible indicators that justify further investigation.
Does an inspection guarantee my tree is safe?
No. Trees are living structures affected by weather, site changes, and conditions that may be hidden. An assessment evaluates identifiable risk factors within a defined scope and period; it cannot guarantee future stability.
How often should my tree be reassessed?
The interval depends on the findings, tree condition, site use, and recommended management. Significant storms, new damage, construction, or changes in lean or root-zone conditions may warrant an earlier inspection.
