Hi, 

We would recommend maybe another consult or opinion from a certified arborist. You can search for a different one at https://www.treesaregood.org/. 

Cracks in the trunks of trees are definitely not a good sign. We can't say for sure if you should have the tree taken down, but the cost of removal versus the cost and safety of your home may be worth it. A crack in the trunk is compromising the structural integrity, so in strong winds or a storm it could come down. Also it is adding stress to the trees health which could invite pathogens or insects to the tree. 

If you wanted to  leave part of the tree for wildlife value purposes, maybe you could ask the tree company to only leave it around 10-12 feet high and let insects, woodpeckers, fungi etc use it for habitat. There is a cut technique that arborists can do to make it look a little more natural called coronet cutting. 

Let us know if you have further questions. 

Emily



you're welcome