Why I Sometimes Tell Ipswich Homeowners NOT to Remove Their Tree! (Yes, i wrote that right)
Arborist pruning overhanging branches near driveway in Ipswich
Why I [Sometimes] Tell Ipswich Homeowners NOT to Remove Their Tree
This might sound strange coming from someone who removes large trees for a living…
But sometimes, I tell people not to remove their tree.
I’ve built Brien’s Tree Solutions around large and complex tree removals in Ipswich — especially the big crane jobs. But my goal isn’t to cut down every tree I see.
My goal is to give honest advice.
And sometimes, that means telling a homeowner their tree is actually fine.
Not Every Big Tree Is a Dangerous Tree
In Ipswich, we have some beautiful mature gums and established shade trees. They can look intimidating — especially when they’re tall and close to the house.
But height alone doesn’t make a tree unsafe.
When I assess a tree, I’m looking for:
Structural defects
Major decay or hollows
Root instability
Lean combined with soil movement
Significant deadwood
Storm damage
If those things aren’t present, removal may not be necessary.
Sometimes Pruning Is Enough
A lot of the time, the real concern isn’t the whole tree — it’s specific limbs.
Overhanging branches
Deadwood
Heavy lateral limbs over the roof
In those cases, selective pruning can reduce risk while keeping the tree healthy and stable.
That saves you money and preserves the character of your yard.
Trees Add More Value Than People Realise
Healthy mature trees provide:
Shade (huge in Queensland heat)
Privacy
Street appeal
Habitat for wildlife
Cooling for your home
Removing a tree is permanent. So if it’s healthy and safe, I’ll always discuss alternatives first.
Fear After a Storm Doesn’t Always Mean Removal
After a big Ipswich storm, I get a lot of calls from understandably worried homeowners.
Strong winds can make trees look unstable. But just because it swayed heavily doesn’t mean it’s unsafe.
If I inspect it and believe it’s structurally sound, I’ll say so.
I’d rather earn your trust long-term than remove a tree you didn’t need to lose.
When I DO Recommend Removal
That said — there are absolutely times when removal is the safest option.
I’ll strongly recommend removal when I see:
Advanced decay compromising structure
Significant lean with root plate movement
Large cracks in the trunk
Heavy limb weight over living areas
Storm-damaged or partially failed trees
Risk to neighbouring properties
And when those large trees need to come down — especially in tight Ipswich blocks — that’s where our crane-assisted removals come in.
Honest Advice First, Chainsaws Second
I know inviting someone onto your property to assess a large tree can feel stressful. You don’t want to be pressured.
That’s not how I operate.
If your tree is safe, I’ll tell you.
If pruning is enough, I’ll explain why.
If removal is genuinely the safest option, I’ll walk you through exactly what’s involved.
Why This Approach Matters
Anyone can say, “Yep, needs to come down.”
But giving balanced advice builds trust.
And in an industry where safety, property protection and major costs are involved, trust matters.
I’ve built Brien’s Tree Solutions on handling the big, complex jobs — especially crane removals in Ipswich — but I’ve also built it on being straight with people.
Unsure About a Tree on Your Property?
If you’ve got a large tree and you’re not sure whether it needs to go, I’m happy to inspect it and give you honest feedback.
No pressure. No scare tactics. Just clear advice.
Because sometimes the right decision isn’t removal.
And sometimes it is.
Either way, you’ll know exactly where you stand. Contact us and I’ll tell you straight.
