Key Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Tree Removal Service
Tree removal is a serious task that requires a serious team if it’s expected to go smoothly. It’s also dangerous work, and if you aren’t experienced, it’s crucial to find a company that is skilled, efficient and reliable to help you out.
So, before you call a random number that pops up on Google Maps, consider these questions to ask to help you make a proper decision on who to hire.
Read More: What to Look for In a Tree Removal Company
Do your homework
When considering a tree service removal company, you’ll want to know what you’re working with. Research the average rate for tree removal to know where you stand, but remember to always opt for a company with a great reputation, even if they’re a bit on the smaller scale and have pricier rates. Also, be sure to do your homework on your tree.
Read More: The Dangers of DIY Tree Removal
What’s wrong with it? How big is it, roughly speaking? Do you intend to find out if it’s possible to grow something in its place? Be sure to know exactly what it is that you’re looking for in order to find the service that’s right for you.
Get an estimate
Leave all surprises at the door when you seek a service as laborious as this one. As you know, tree removal is no easy feat, and it can get pretty costly. It’s a service that’s worth the price, but you don’t want any surprises or to feel as though you’re paying for a poorly executed task. Make sure you communicate all factors of your tree in question in order to get the most accurate estimate from the arborist or company you’re thinking of hiring.
Read More: How Arborists Cut Down Trees
Here are key questions to ask before you hire a company
It’s not ideal to trust anyone brand new or with extremely little experience in tree removal with your landscape. Tree removal is dangerous, so it’s important to seek out an experienced service, as it automatically minimizes the risk of any life-threatening or hazardous tree trimming accidents taking place. You might want to also build up on that question by asking them, “How many years have you been practicing tree care?” and “Who did you learn your skills from?” The more they can tell you, the more confident you’ll feel about their services.
How do they minimize possible damages to your property?
Protect your shrubs, bushes, and flowers or even your other trees in this process. Removing one tree doesn’t have to put your entire property or yard at risk if done correctly. Find out if they also analyze the land they’re working on before removing the tree, or if they’re the type to just dive in with little direction or caution. Hint: you don’t want the second type of attitude in a case such as this.
Are they insured?
Accidents happen, and tree care can be extremely dangerous work. So, it is very important to make sure you’re hiring a service that has liability insurance in case of injury or damaged property. You also want to make sure the service you hire protects its workers. Workplace safety insurance (WSIB) is a type of insurance that will protect workers on the job, and it tells a lot about the company you’re dealing with. A good employer or business owner will want to take care of their employees, which means they’ll also take care of their clients. Look for that WSIB coverage.
Do they have a certified arborist on staff?
Anybody can start an arborist service without any training at all – but loving trees does not make an expert. It’s our opinion that any tree removal company worth calling should have hired arborists that have enough credentials to complete the work safely and the tree cutter profession. A certified arborist is specially trained to be a tree expert and provide proper tree care.
Do they have reviews or referrals?
Reputation is everything when it comes to a service as intricate as tree removal or landscaping. Find out what work they’ve done in the past and who has recommended them. You can even go the extra mile to check out the landscaping of their past clients if they’ve done commercial work that is open for the public to see.
Are they responsive to your emails/calls?
What is their customer service like? Ask them how long it usually takes for them to get back to their clients with any updates, information and/or quotes.
Do they offer 24/7 emergency services?
Ensure that if something goes wrong with your landscape after the tree has been taken down, the service you used will be there for you in case of 24/7 emergency services.
What equipment do they have?
The two most common methods in tree removal services are aerial lifts or tree-climbing. Find out which method your potential company will be using, and make sure that your space can accommodate their methods. For example, heavy equipment may damage existing underground systems like drainage systems or septic tanks, so your arborist might have to climb with a rope and harness instead.
What safety measure do they take?
Just like insurance, it’s important to make sure that everybody is safe on the job. Ask them about their safety measures and what they provide for their workers to follow these safety measures.
Will the job require a permit?
Nobody wants to be surprised with hefty fines. Use your municipal website as your resource to find out whether or not you need a permit to take down a tree, and also check with the service you are considering if they know how to go about applying for permits.
What is their clean-up process?
Don’t be left with great big holes, mounds of wood chips mulch and broken trees everywhere. Clear it with the service you use that they actually have a clean-up process and know what your options are. Our 24/7 service offers impeccable clean-up and other extras ranging from soil placement and even seed planting.
Good luck with your search for a reputable and honest tree removal service. Don’t feel intimidated! You will find what you’re looking for.
Just remember to use the above questions as a guide whenever you feel you need a refresher on the appropriate questions to ensure the job gets done successfully. Contact us at Green Thumb today.
We take pride in offering our professional Tree Care services in Ottawa. Feel free to reach out to Green Thumb Tree Specialist for any of the following Tree Services: