Arborist Evaluation & Tree Assessment

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Alexandria & Fort Hunt, VA - ISA Certified Arborist Sean Harman MA-6197A

Not every tree question starts with pruning or removal. In many established neighborhoods, the responsible first step is a professional arborist evaluation focused on understanding the tree, the site, and the level of risk before decisions are made. 

 An arborist evaluation is a site-specific assessment performed by an ISA Certified Arborist. It considers tree structure, visible defects, proximity to structures, past pruning or cabling, species characteristics, and site conditions. The goal is not to sell work, but to provide clear, defensible recommendations based on what is observed. 

Level 1 – Limited Visual
Brief, ground-based review from a distance to identify obvious concerns.

Level 2 – Basic Visual
Detailed ground-based inspection of the root flare, trunk, scaffold limbs, and crown.

Level 3 – Advanced (Aloft)
Aerial inspection using climbing or a lift to closely examine structural defects not visible from the ground.

Level 4 – Diagnostic Assessment
Advanced evaluation using specialized techniques when visual inspection alone is not sufficient.

 See an example of a Level 3 tree inspection 

• Large or mature trees near homes or streets
   
• Visible cavities, cracks, or deadwood
   
• Trees with a history of pruning or cabling
   
• Conflicting recommendations
   
• Uncertainty about whether work is necessary
   

Sometimes the outcome is pruning. Sometimes monitoring. Sometimes removal. An evaluation helps explain why.

 Evaluations are based on visible conditions at the time of inspection and current arboricultural standards. Trees are living systems, and while risk can be reduced through proper care, it cannot be eliminated entirely. Recommendations are made to reduce risk to a reasonable and manageable level. 

 If you’re looking for clarity before making a decision, an arborist evaluation is a good place to start.