You need to post pictures of the tree. It’s not possible to give an opinion otherwise.

Done... Sorry... Thought I did.

It is certainly NOT dead!! And doesn't even look much like it is sick or dying. If you have concerns about the overall heath of the tree, then you need to call in a qualified arborist - not just a tree service - for an evaluation. You want to be looking at ISA certified arborists only and preferably one experienced in tree health/safety assessment.

the usual rule is.. get 3 opinions ... insist on seeing their insurance certs ....

at worse.. you take down the bad side.. but i dont see any reason to take down the other part ... but im not there in person ..

do spend the money for a certified arborist.. tree doctor ... knowledge is power and all that ... it might be a deal where if you hire them.. there is no charge for the inspection .....

https://duckduckgo.com/?q=isa+certified+tree+Del+Mar%2C+CA&t=ffcm&ia=web

looks like del mar tree care is so certified .... so whatever they say.. after an onsite inspection ... but do let us know what they say ... pleeeease .....

but the bottom line is... there is probably no emergency.. if it takes a few months to get it taken care of... odds are it wont be a problem.. we call that tree time ... its probably been damaged and rotting for ten years ....

and if it has to go.. it has to go ... plant a new tree .. and move on ....

ken

Thanks Ken... I tend to be a bit of tree hugger and can't stand seeing a beautiful tree like that taken down. Thanks for the link. We will definently have them come out. Your right though, If it has to go it has to go. Thanks again and I will keep you posted.