Trees provide shade, improve air quality, add beauty to gardens, and give homes to birds and other wildlife. But sometimes, a tree may need to be removed. It’s not always an easy decision, but in some cases, it is the safest and most sensible choice. We’re here to help explain what tree removal is, and why it’s sometimes necessary, so that you can make the best choice for your garden, property, and safety.
Tree removal means taking a tree down safely and removing it from your land. This process is not as simple as cutting the tree at its base. In fact, it usually involves a series of careful steps to make sure everything is done correctly, safely, and without causing damage to surrounding areas. A skilled team like ours in Leicester uses tools such as ropes, chainsaws, harnesses, and sometimes cranes to remove trees depending on the size and location of the tree. Tree removal may also include cutting the trunk into smaller sections, removing the limbs one by one, and clearing the area afterward. In most cases, we also offer the option to grind down the stump, so the ground is level and ready for replanting or landscaping.
Many people ask why a tree would ever need to be removed. After all, trees are living things that often take years or even decades to grow. We agree—and that’s why we always check carefully before recommending removal. However, there are many situations where taking a tree down is the best choice for safety, health, or practicality.
One common reason for removing a tree is because it has died or is dying. A dead tree becomes brittle over time, and the wood can easily crack or break, especially during strong winds or heavy rain. If the tree is near a house, car, or footpath, this becomes a serious risk. Large branches or even the whole tree could fall without warning, causing damage or injury. In these cases, it is much safer to remove the tree before an accident happens.
Another reason is disease. Just like people and animals, trees can suffer from illnesses. Some tree diseases can spread quickly, especially in closely planted areas or wooded spaces. If one tree is infected and not treated or removed in time, it can spread the problem to other healthy trees nearby. Removing a diseased tree can sometimes protect the rest of your garden or woodland and stop the issue from getting worse. Our team is trained to spot signs of tree disease and can offer advice if you’re unsure.
Storm damage is also a common cause of tree removal. High winds, snow, and heavy rain can break branches or even uproot whole trees. If a tree has been damaged in a storm, it might not be stable anymore. Even if it looks like it’s standing firm, the roots or trunk may have been weakened. In these situations, removing the tree is often the safest option. We also offer emergency call-outs if a tree has fallen or is at immediate risk of falling.
Sometimes, a tree might be too close to a building or growing in the wrong place. Roots can damage house foundations, driveways, and underground pipes. Branches might block light from entering your windows or grow too close to power lines, causing a fire or electricity risk. In these cases, removing the tree helps protect your home and makes sure your property is safe. It also allows for better use of your outdoor space, especially if you're planning an extension, new fencing, or garden redesign.
In other situations, tree removal is needed to manage space or improve the health of surrounding trees. When trees are planted too close together, they can compete for sunlight, water, and nutrients. This can result in poor growth and weaker trees overall. By removing one or two trees, you allow the remaining ones to grow stronger and healthier. It also opens up the garden, letting in more light and making the space feel larger and more inviting.
Aesthetic reasons can also come into play. Sometimes a tree simply doesn’t fit the layout of the garden anymore. Perhaps you’ve changed your garden design, or maybe the tree has grown much larger than expected. Overgrown trees can block views, cast too much shade, or take over patios, lawns, or other areas where you’d rather spend your time. While we always encourage pruning and reshaping where possible, there are cases where full removal makes the most sense.
Safety is always our top concern at Leicester Tree Services. Tree removal can be dangerous work, especially for large or tall trees, or when the tree is close to buildings or roads. That’s why it’s never a good idea to try and remove a tree yourself. Our team is fully trained and insured, and we follow strict safety procedures to protect you, your property, and our workers. We assess every situation before starting the job and use the right tools and techniques to make sure everything goes smoothly.
The removal process itself starts with a visit to your property to inspect the tree and the surrounding area. We look at the tree’s size, condition, location, and any nearby hazards. Based on that, we put together a plan for safe removal. In most cases, we remove the tree in sections, starting from the top. This helps control how branches fall and keeps the area below safe. Once the tree is down, we cut it into manageable pieces and clear them from the site. If requested, we can grind the stump down so the area is flat and tidy.
We also believe in doing what’s best for the environment. While tree removal is sometimes necessary, we always aim to remove trees responsibly. We recycle as much as possible—branches and wood can be turned into mulch, logs, or woodchips. We also encourage customers to plant a new tree in place of the one removed, if it’s suitable for the space. This way, the overall health and beauty of your garden can still be maintained or even improved.
Another important part of tree removal is getting the right permission. Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), especially in conservation areas. This means you need approval from the local council before removing or even cutting the tree. At Leicester Tree Services, we’re familiar with these rules and can help guide you through the process. We’re happy to check if permission is needed and can assist with the paperwork if required.
At the end of the day, tree removal isn’t just about taking something away—it’s about making your outdoor space safer, healthier, and more useful. It’s about protecting your property, improving your garden, and giving you peace of mind. Whether the tree is dead, diseased, storm-damaged, or just no longer in the right place, we’re here to help you make the right decision about tree removal in Leicester.
We understand that for many people, removing a tree can feel like a big step. That’s why we always offer honest advice, free quotes, and a friendly, helpful service. We’ll never recommend removal unless we truly believe it’s necessary. Our goal is to make the process simple, safe, and stress-free from start to finish.
If you have a tree you’re concerned about, or if you’re simply not sure what the best option is, give us a call. One of our tree experts will be happy to take a look and talk through your options. With Leicester Tree Services, you can trust that your trees—and your property—are in good hands.
Leicester Tree Services
6 St Georges Way
Leicester
LE1 1SH
Phone: 01164035555