Advanced Evaluation for Tree Risk Concerns
A Level 3 Tree Risk Assessment uses advanced inspection or diagnostic methods to investigate specific tree conditions that cannot be adequately evaluated through a basic assessment alone. It may be appropriate when questions about internal decay, root stability, branch attachments, or other structural concerns require a closer investigation before a management decision is made.
Eric Putnam BCMA Inc. provides Level 3 Tree Risk Assessments throughout Greater Houston and the Gulf Coast for homeowners, property managers, homeowners associations, and other clients responsible for managing trees. We define the concern, select the appropriate assessment methods, and establish the scope before beginning the work. Our findings help clients understand the identified risk and evaluate reasonable options for managing it.
Understanding a Level 3 Risk Assessment
When a Level 3 Assessment May Be Appropriate
An advanced assessment may be recommended when:
- A basic assessment identifies a concern that requires further investigation
- Suspected internal decay may affect a trunk or major branch
- Cracks, cavities, or damaged branch attachments need closer examination
- Root damage or decay raises questions about tree stability
- Conditions in the upper canopy cannot be adequately examined from the ground
- Storm damage or construction impacts require a more detailed structural evaluation
- Additional information could help determine whether a valued tree can be retained
- A preservation or removal decision requires more information about a specific defect
The approved scope may include:
The approved scope may include:
- Reviewing previous assessments, photographs, and relevant property history
- Identifying the tree, tree parts, and conditions requiring advanced evaluation
- Selecting advanced inspection or testing methods appropriate to the concern
- Examining specified branches, trunk areas, root-collar conditions, or roots
- Recording relevant measurements, photographs, and diagnostic findings
- Evaluating the significance of the findings for identified people or property nearby
- Developing recommendations for risk reduction and future reassessment
- Preparing the agreed written findings or formal report
Our Tree Risk Assessment Process
Define the Concern and Scope
We determine which trees are involved, what questions need to be answered, which people or property could be affected, and the time frame being considered. We also establish the inspection methods and documentation required for the assignment.
Evaluate the Tree and Site
We review the tree’s condition and structure, relevant defects, surrounding site conditions, and how nearby areas are used. Previous damage, construction activity, changes in wind exposure, and available assessment records may also inform the evaluation.
Complete the Advanced Investigation
We use the agreed advanced inspection or diagnostic methods to investigate the specified concerns. Findings are interpreted alongside the tree’s structure, site conditions, and the limitations of the methods used.
Explain the Findings and Recommendations
We provide the agreed documentation and explain the identified concerns, risk considerations, and management options. Recommendations may include selective pruning, supplemental support when appropriate, changes to how an area is used, monitoring, or removal.
Do You Need a Closer Evaluation of a Tree Risk Concern?
Request a Level 3 Tree Risk Assessment when a specific structural concern requires advanced investigation. If you are unsure which assessment is appropriate, schedule a paid arborist consultation so we can evaluate the concern and recommend the next step.
How Tree Risk Is Evaluated
Tree risk assessment considers the potential for a tree or tree part to fail, the chance that it could strike a person or property, and the likely consequences of that impact within a defined time frame. People, buildings, vehicles, and other items that could be affected are referred to as targets.
A defect is considered in relation to the tree’s structure and its surroundings. The location of a branch, the extent of decay, and how frequently people occupy the area can all affect the assessment. Advanced findings help clarify these questions and guide recommendations for managing the identified risk.
Why Clients Choose Eric Putnam BCMA Inc. for Tree Risk Assessments
Expertise Led by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist
Our company is led by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist (BCMA). Tree risk concerns are evaluated with an understanding of tree biology, structural development, decay, site conditions, and preservation considerations.
Assessment Methods Selected for the Concern
We establish what needs to be investigated before selecting the methods. The proposed scope explains which trees and conditions are included, what documentation will be provided, and what limitations apply.
Clear Findings and Practical Recommendations
We explain what the findings mean for the tree and the property. Recommendations address the identified concerns while considering reasonable management options and the client’s objectives.
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:
Common Questions About Level 3 Tree Risk Assessments
What is the difference between a Level 2 and Level 3 assessment?
A Level 2 assessment is a basic evaluation of the tree and surrounding site, generally conducted from the ground using visual observations and basic tools. A Level 3 assessment uses advanced inspection or diagnostic methods to investigate specified concerns in greater detail. It often builds on findings from a basic assessment.
Does every tree need a Level 3 assessment?
No. Many concerns can be addressed through a basic assessment. Advanced investigation is appropriate when additional information is needed to evaluate a particular condition or support a management decision. The method and extent of the investigation depend on the concern.
Can an advanced assessment help determine whether a tree can be preserved?
Yes. Additional information may help identify whether pruning, supplemental support, changes to nearby activities, or continued monitoring are reasonable options. The findings may also support removal when the identified risk cannot be managed to an acceptable level. The recommendation depends on the tree, site, and assessment findings.
Is a written arborist report included?
The documentation is established before the assessment begins. Written findings, photographs, diagnostic results, and a formal arborist report may be included in the approved scope. If the documentation is needed for an HOA, insurer, attorney, or project team, provide those requirements when requesting the service.
Does a Level 3 assessment guarantee that a tree will not fail?
No. Advanced methods provide additional information about the conditions investigated, but they cannot identify every concealed defect or predict every future event. Findings apply to the agreed scope, assessment time frame, and conditions present during the evaluation. Reassessment may be recommended as conditions change.
