9 Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Tree Removal Service | Fort Worth, TX
Sprucing up your yard is not easy; it requires skill and consistent effort. The hedges need trimming, the flowers need weeding, some trees need pruning, and others need complete removal. While you can probably handle most of these tasks, leaving tree removal to the experts is safer. It’s a complex and dangerous task that requires expertise and specialized equipment.
A tree removal service can safely remove trees on your property without damaging your property or causing harm to anyone. However, with so many tree removal companies, finding the best one for the job is easier said than done.
Here are ten questions to ask a tree removal service to ensure you get the right company for the job.
1. Can I See Your License and Insurance?
All tree removal companies in Texas must have valid licenses to work in their jurisdiction. Those without licenses are operating illegally and breaching state regulations. Ask the company to show you proof of their license, and don’t forget to check the expiry date. Remember, expired licenses are invalid.
Once the license checks out, ask for proof of insurance. This is an absolute must to avoid any unexpected spending. Insurance protects you from liability in case of property damage or work-related injuries. Check for proof of general liability and worker’s compensation insurance before signing the dotted line.
2. How Long Have You Been in the Tree Removal Industry?
Experience goes hand-in-hand with the quality of service. Asking about the company’s experience will give you a good idea of the kind of tree removal service you’re dealing with. Ask about their track record removing trees and what projects they’ve worked on before. A solid track record with quality references is always a good sign.
3. Do You Belong to Any Organization?
Reputable tree removal companies have built a name for themselves in their niche. Companies that are members of organizations such as the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) and the Tree Care Industry Association will hardly disappoint you. These memberships show the companies’ commitment to their craft and overall professionalism.
4. Will You Bring a Certified Arborist to the Property?
An arborist, or arboriculturist, is a professional specializing in the anatomy, care, and maintenance of trees. While the technicians do the heavy lifting, the arborist ensures the tree is safely removed without harming it and the surrounding environment.
It’s one thing for the tree removal service to have an arborist on staff and another thing to have a certified arborist on the team. The latter has undergone hours of training and education to get certification by the ISA. This means the arborist is equipped to oversee tree removal and ensure a seamless process. These professionals also adhere to a specific code of ethics that serves the interest of you, the client, and the trees. Companies with certified arborists are worth considering.
5. Does the Job Require a Permit?
Tree removal can sometimes be invasive and inconvenience your neighbors and the general public. It’s important to inquire whether your job requires a permit and what type of permit.
You might require a permit from the city, county, or even your HOA. If so, ask whether they’ll organize the permits or you’ll have to do so yourself. Regardless, it is advisable to ensure you have a permit if it’s mandatory for the task. This helps you avoid any hefty fines you didn’t budget for.
6. What Equipment Will You Use for the Job?
Heavy-duty equipment is necessary to remove large trees with deep roots in the ground. You can better prepare by asking what equipment the service will use for the job. For instance, you can mark utility lines to avoid damage or lock your pets inside to avoid accidents. If the equipment likely damages your pavement or lawn, you can organize less-intrusive tree removal techniques.
7. How Long Before I Get a Quote?
The charges for tree removal vary from one company to the next. Knowing how long the company takes to present its quote will help you prepare your finances accordingly. Most companies take a few weeks to present their quotes. Steer clear of any companies that offer instant quotes. Most of them are likely looking to rip you off.
It’s also important to explore all your options and find a company that matches your budget. This isn’t to say you should go for the cheapest tree removal service. Cheap companies offer subpar services and often lack proper insurance. Remember, if the deal is too good, think twice.
8. Who Will Undertake the Tree Removal?
Some tree removal companies subcontract their tree removal or hire temporary workers. While there’s nothing wrong with doing so, you’re better off with a company that does the job itself. That way, you can know who is culpable should anything go wrong.
Independent companies also have strict quality standards that they adhere to. Subcontractors may not always be keen on the standards stipulated by the main company. Ask whether the company subcontracts its services before deciding whether it’s worth your time.
9. How Do You Clean Up?
Tree removal is a messy job that leaves a lot of dirt and debris once completed. While you may expect a tree removal service to clean up after their work, you may be surprised that some don’t. Others may charge extra for cleaning the mess.
Ask how the company cleans up after removing the tree and whether they charge for the clearing. All details about cleaning up should appear in the company’s quote. If it doesn’t, ask whether the company offers free cleaning or how they charge for their cleaning.
Get the Right Service for the Job
It’s important to do your due diligence when picking a tree removal service. Ask the above questions to find the best company for your job and budget. Remember to explore all your options and request quotes from different companies before taking your pick.
S&P Tree Service is the best tree removal service. is only a phone call away. Contact us today for professional tree removal services.
Check our previous blog on this topic here.