Signs of a Reputable Tree Removal Company
Need tree removal services for your home or commercial property but aren’t sure how to pick one? Deciding on a quality tree service company is extremely important to ensure your job will be done right, safely, and with no impact to your property or the structural integrity of your landscape.
So for help choosing the right company for the job, here are tips for finding a reputable tree removal company, including what signs to look for.
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
A bit of work on your end will ensure you find a company you’re comfortable hiring. So don’t be afraid to contact local companies to ask questions. And read through their websites and online reviews to make sure they are insured, licensed, certified, and reputable.
GET AN ESTIMATE
Most tree removal companies will offer free estimates. So ask for a quote and see how they charge—e.g. flat rate or piece by piece. Once you have a few estimates, compare them to see what the average going rate is.
CHOOSE YOUR TREE SERVICE
After doing your research and comparing quotes, choose the company you feel most comfortable hiring. Here are some of the most important things to look for when making your decision.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A TREE REMOVAL COMPANY
The following are signs of a reputable tree removal company.
They Put Safety First
A tree removal company should follow strict safety regulations, including wearing safety gear—such as hard hats, harnesses, gloves, glasses, and chainsaw-resistant pants. They will also prioritize the safety of you and your family, your property, and your neighbour’s property.
Read More: The Dangers of DIY Tree Removal
Read More: How Arborists Cut Down Trees
Review Credentials
Does the company have safety and business credentials—such as with the Better Business Bureau, International Society of Arboriculture, or the Tree Care Industry Association? Finding a company with these types of accreditation will ensure they are a professional and safe company that provides excellent services.
Insured and Licensed
Operating a tree removal company without a license is illegal and risky. And if a company doesn’t have workers’ compensation or liability insurance, you could be held accountable for any injuries or damages that happen on your property.
Workers’ compensation insurance protects you and the company’s employees by covering any injuries the employees sustain on your property while protecting you from facing a lawsuit. And liability insurance covers the cost of any damage to your property caused by the tree removal company.
So make sure the tree removal company has insurance and is also licensed by asking for copies of this insurance sent directly from the insurance agency.
Respect for Your Property
A reputable tree company will take steps to protect your property, including the ground around the tree and your home. They will move anything out of the way that could be damaged from their work. They will use lawn protection—such as planks of wood—so the grass won’t be uprooted from felling trees or their equipment.
They will also cut the trees in a way to ensure the falling pieces don’t damage your car, house, or neighbour’s property.
Offer More Services
If you need more than just tree removal services, make sure the company offers all the services you need, such as stump grinding and debris removal. Otherwise, you could end up having the remains of a tree left on your lawn, and you’ll need to haul away these heavy pieces on your own.
Tree Topping
Topping is a service that involves removing live sections of a tree—not complete tree removal. While there may be some instances where topping is necessary—such as for the safety of overhead power lines—look for a company that will avoid topping the tree if at all possible, especially if the tree is large and healthy.
Proper Cleanup Process
A tree removal company should leave your property looking the same as it did before they arrived, minus the tree. So look for a company that offers complete cleanup if you don’t want to be stuck with debris left behind. They might even offer a mulching service or cut up and stack firewood with the leftover tree and branches. And if you want any of these services, make sure it’s included in your contract.
Communication and Client Care
Look for a company tree that provides swift and open communication with you. Otherwise, a company that takes too long to get back to you or avoids answering some of your questions isn’t worth your time.
Professional tree companies want to help their clients as much as they can, so client care should be one of their top priorities.
TOP QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR TREE REMOVAL COMPANY
Here are some of the most important questions you should ask when searching for a tree removal company.
For How Long Have They Been In Business?
A company that has stayed in business for at least 5 to 10 years is doing something right. Their longevity speaks about their business practices and performance.
If they have years of experience under their belt, they will likely be more reliable than a company that is just starting. And they will have more of a track record with clients.
How Do They Minimize Potential Damage To Your Yard?
Protecting your property should be a priority for the tree removal company. So when asking this question, they should be able to tell you the steps they take to prevent damage to your yard. For example, they might use plywood to protect your lawn from their heavy equipment.
Will the Job Require a Permit?
There is a possibility that the job will require a permit, so look up this information on your municipal website. Ask the tree company if they have applied for the required permits.
How Long Will the Job Take?
Ask this question when getting an estimate. Some companies might say it will only take three hours, while others might say it will take three days. Ideally, the shorter the time, the better, especially if you’re eager to remove the tree from your property.
What Equipment Will They Be Using?
An experienced tree removal company will have all the required equipment to provide their services. This equipment should include safety gear and safety-certified machinery that is in good condition.
Do They Have Reviews or Referrals?
It can be helpful to get referrals from past customers. But customer reviews will also help you decide whether the tree cutter company is worth hiring. Check online reviews as well, so you know they are unbiased.
Do They Have Insurance?
Any tree removal company should have insurance. Otherwise, if someone falls from a tree on your property, you could be held accountable. So make sure they have insurance and that it’s stated in your contract.
Do They Have a Certified Arborist On Staff?
Instead of hiring a company that uses subcontractors, look for one that has at least one certified arborist as part of their permanent staff. Companies that use their own team take more responsibility for their work and hold themselves accountable, so they strive to provide the best service possible.
Also, their arborists should have enough credentials to complete the work safely and professionally. A certified arborist is specially trained to be a tree expert and provide proper tree care.
Keep these tips in mind when looking for a tree removal company. Whether they are pruning or removing a tree, tree work is a big job. So look for a tree company that is professional, reliable, qualified, and uses best practices to ensure the safety of everyone and everything on your property. 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: