Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your Des Moines property. But when a tree becomes diseased, damaged, or dangerously positioned, it can go from an asset to a liability fast. Falling branches can damage roofs, downed trees can block driveways, and decaying root systems can undermine your foundation.
As a tree removal and trimming company serving Urbandale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Grimes, and the entire Des Moines metro, we see homeowners wait too long to address problem trees every year. Here are five warning signs that it's time to call a professional.
The 5 Warning Signs
Dead or Dying Branches in the Crown
If more than 25% of the tree's canopy is dead, the tree is unlikely to recover. Look for bare branches in summer when the rest of the tree is leafed out, or branches that snap easily and lack any green under the bark. Dead branches are unpredictable — they can fall in any weather, not just during storms. In Iowa, our summer thunderstorms and winter ice events make dead-topped trees especially dangerous.
Fungus, Mushrooms, or Soft Spots at the Base
Mushrooms growing at the base of your tree or along major roots are a sign of internal decay. The wood inside may be soft and rotting even if the outside looks fine. This is common in Iowa's older ash trees affected by Emerald Ash Borer, as well as mature maples and oaks. A tree with a compromised base can topple without warning, especially during the high winds central Iowa experiences in spring and fall.
Leaning That Wasn't There Before
Some trees naturally grow at an angle — that's normal. What's not normal is a tree that has started leaning recently, especially if you notice cracked or heaving soil on the opposite side of the lean. This indicates root failure, and it means the tree could come down soon. If a leaning tree is within falling distance of your home, garage, fence, or power lines, it needs professional evaluation immediately.
Storm Damage That Exposed the Trunk
Iowa storms are hard on trees. If a storm tore off a major limb and left a large wound exposing the inner wood, the tree may not be able to heal properly. Open wounds invite insects and disease, and structural integrity is permanently reduced. We see this frequently after the derecho-style winds and heavy ice storms that hit the Des Moines metro. If more than one-third of the trunk circumference is damaged, removal is usually the safest option.
Roots Damaging Your Foundation, Driveway, or Sidewalk
Tree roots can crack foundations, lift sidewalks, and invade sewer lines. If you're noticing buckling concrete, new cracks in your basement walls, or slow drains and the closest tree is within 20 feet, the roots may be the cause. In established Des Moines neighborhoods like Beaverdale, Windsor Heights, and older parts of Urbandale, mature trees and aging infrastructure often come into conflict. Sometimes removal is the only lasting solution.
What to Do If You Spot These Signs
Don't wait for a storm to make the decision for you. A tree that falls on its own terms can cause thousands of dollars in property damage — or worse, hurt someone. Here's what we recommend:
Get a professional assessment. A trained eye can tell the difference between a tree that needs trimming and one that needs to come down. At Central Iowa Lawn, we offer free on-site evaluations for homeowners across the Des Moines metro.
Don't try to remove large trees yourself. Tree removal involves heavy equipment, chain saws, and the physics of falling timber. It's one of the most dangerous home maintenance tasks there is. A professional crew can take down a tree safely, even in tight spaces next to homes and power lines.
Think about what comes after. Once a tree is removed, you'll have a stump and an open space. We handle stump grinding and debris removal so your yard is left clean. Many of our customers in West Des Moines and Johnston choose to plant a new, healthier tree in a better location.
Why Central Iowa Homeowners Trust Us for Tree Removal
With over 10 years of experience and 61+ five-star Google reviews, Central Iowa Lawn Maintenance and Snow Removal is the team Des Moines area homeowners call when trees need to come down. We serve Urbandale, West Des Moines, Johnston, Grimes, Clive, Waukee, Beaverdale, Windsor Heights, and the surrounding communities.
Our approach is straightforward: we show up on time, give you an honest assessment, provide a fair price, and leave your property cleaner than we found it. No surprises, no upselling — just professional tree removal done right.
Worried About a Tree on Your Property?
Get a free, no-obligation assessment from our team. We'll let you know if the tree needs to come down — or if trimming can save it.
Get Your Free QuoteOr call us directly: (515) 238-6730
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tree removal cost in Des Moines?
Tree removal in the Des Moines metro area typically ranges from $300 to $2,000 depending on the tree's size, location, and complexity. Small trees under 30 feet may cost $300–$700, while large trees over 60 feet can cost $1,500 or more. We provide free estimates so you know the cost upfront before any work begins.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Des Moines?
In most cases, you do not need a permit to remove a tree on private residential property in Des Moines or surrounding suburbs like Urbandale and West Des Moines. However, trees in the public right-of-way or in certain historic districts may require city approval. Check with your local municipality to be sure.
What is the best time of year to remove a tree in Iowa?
Late fall through early spring (November–March) is generally the best time for tree removal in Iowa. Trees are dormant, the ground may be firmer, and there's less risk of disturbing nesting wildlife. However, hazardous or dead trees should be removed as soon as possible regardless of season.