One should always ID their location as that gives alot of helpful even vital info. That said, not sure what it is, maybe black locust. Definitely there is rot, but despite all the pics, it's hard to get an overview of the rot's extent and exacly where on the tree it is. You should back off and try to get a view of the entire rot area and how/where it is situated on the tree. Your 7th pic does seem to show a branch failing and shedding bark.

Is the rot on the main trunk or a side branch? How close is this tree to your house or other structures?

@bengz6westmd I’m very close to the MD/PA border. This tree is very tall so I’d guess it’s native to the region or at least enjoys this climate.

these pictures of bark fungus or mold are taken of the main trunk of the tree, on one side (which sounds hollow when i tap it), about 4 feet from the ground). the other sides of the tree trunk do not have that same hollow sound.

is it possible to offer any treatment if i pulled off the bark where it sounds hollow?

@cecily 7A

I am very bad at estimating the height of this tree, maybe 50 to 70 feet tall.

the tree is far from my house though, it is close to a fence. i guess it isnt impossible that the tree could reach the house if it broke at the base and fell in the exact direction of the house, though i think it’s unlikely reaching so if there is a way to treat it or maybe just trim it and not remove the entire tree that would be a better option.

@ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5

does this tree have a disease that could spread?

Ha, interesting. I'm pretty much right on the MD/PA border. The "rot" fungi are prevalent everywhere and the tree having it doesn't make any difference to other trees. Black locusts are rather short-lived and subject to wood-borers and then the resultant rot. Easy to predict that any consultation w/a tree company is going to advise to cut it down -- that's their business (and your money).

@bengz6westmd

then why am i taking all these pictures? just come over and take a look. haha

do i have another realistic option othet than hiring a tree company who will charge me lots to cut it down ?

The other option, of course, is let it be. While living in VA in a heavily forested area, of course there were trees nearby in every state imaginable -- young saplings to old, dead/dying trees. If they weren't an issue regarding the house, I let nature take its course.

@bengz6westmd

thanks.

It’s a shame this tree can’t be saved. Might there be any warning signs I can look out for, in the months or years leading up to this tree naturally falling?

If it is close to a neighbor and can cause damage to their property all damages would fall on you since you are aware that it is diseased.

Many trees will stand for some yrs after dying and won't fall until the root crown dries up and becomes brittle. My brother's lot has dozens of ashes dead for 4-5 yrs and still stand, other ashes have blown over, usually during windstorms. If that's actually a black locust, it may very well sprout from around the base if the rest of it dies.

I'm going to say ... no.