Your Essential Tree Service Hiring Guide
Navigate the complexities of hiring a tree service with confidence. Know what to ask, what to avoid, and how to get a fair and safe job done.
What to Ask a Tree Service Before Hiring
Hiring a tree service can be a significant investment, and making the right choice is crucial for the safety of your property and the health of your trees. Before you commit to a company, arm yourself with these essential questions.
1. Are You Licensed, Insured, and Do You Carry Workers' Compensation?
This is arguably the most critical question. A reputable tree service will carry both general liability insurance and workers' compensation. General liability protects your property in case of damage during the work, while workers' compensation protects you from liability if a crew member gets injured on your property. Always ask for a Certificate of Insurance (COI) directly from their insurance provider, not just a copy from the company itself.
2. What is Your Insurance Type (ACV vs. RCV)?
Beyond simply having insurance, understand the type of property damage coverage they carry. Actual Cash Value (ACV) insurance pays for the depreciated value of damaged property, meaning you could be left paying the difference for replacement. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) insurance, on the other hand, covers the full cost of replacing damaged property without depreciation. Opt for RCV whenever possible to ensure full protection.
3. Do You Employ ISA Certified Arborists or are you TCIA Accredited?
An ISA Certified Arborist is an individual who has achieved a high level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through experience and examination. TCIA Accreditation signifies that a company has been evaluated on professionalism, performance, and safety. These credentials indicate a commitment to industry best practices and tree health.
4. What Exactly is Included in Your Quote? (Stump Grinding, Debris Removal, Wood Chipping)
Tree service quotes can vary wildly. The cheapest bid often excludes essential services like stump grinding, debris removal, or full site cleanup. Clarify precisely what your quote includes. Will they remove all wood, branches, and leaves? Will they grind the stump below grade? Are wood chips left on site or hauled away? Get it in writing.
5. How Will You Access the Tree and Protect My Property?
Ask about their equipment and methods. Do they use bucket trucks, cranes, or climbers? How will they protect your lawn, landscaping, and nearby structures from damage during the process? Professional companies will have a plan to minimize impact.
6. What is Your Cleanup Policy?
A good tree service will leave your property cleaner than they found it. Ask for specifics on their cleanup policy: sweeping driveways, raking leaves, and ensuring all small debris is removed. Don't assume anything – get the details upfront.
7. Can You Assist with Permit Applications?
Many cities have ordinances regarding tree removal or major trimming, often requiring permits. Ask if the company is familiar with local regulations and if they can assist you with the permit application process.
8. Do You Have an Anti-Topping Commitment?
Topping (the indiscriminate cutting of tree branches to stubs) is a harmful practice that severely damages trees, making them susceptible to disease and decay. A reputable arborist will refuse to top trees and adhere to ISA pruning standards.
Do They Carry Workers' Comp? Understanding Your Liability
Workers' compensation is often overlooked but is critically important. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, you, the homeowner, could be held financially responsible for medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. Always verify that the company has active workers' compensation insurance and ask for proof.
Tree Removal: What Should Be Included in the Quote?
A comprehensive tree removal quote should clearly itemize all services. Typically, this includes:
- Tree Felling/Removal: The actual cutting down of the tree.
- Debris Removal: Hauling away all branches, logs, and leaves.
- Cleanup: Thorough raking and clearing of the work area.
- Stump Grinding: Removal of the stump, usually to a depth of 6-12 inches below grade.
- Wood Chipping: Processing branches into wood chips. Sometimes included with debris removal, sometimes offered separately or left for the homeowner.
- Permit Fees: If applicable, the cost for obtaining necessary permits.