Topping is a high maintenance pruning practice. There are some hidden costs of topping. One is the reduction in property value. Disfigured, topped trees are considered an impending expense. Another potential cost of topped trees is the potential liability.
Topped trees are prone to breaking and can be hazardous.
Since topping is considered to be an unacceptable pruning practice, any damage caused by branch failure of a topped tree may lead to a finding of negligence in a court of law. There are times when a tree must be reduced in height or spread. Providing clearance for utility lines is an example. There are recommended techniques for doing this. If practical, branches should be removed back to their point of origin.