It can be daunting, not to mention frustrating to look for a tree service company. There are hundreds of tree service companies out there, and you need to be extra careful in choosing the best one for your particular needs. You can be tricked by low cost and empty promises, which is why we came up with the top things you need to know before hiring a tree service. These things will help you make a wise decision on your next tree care project.
Credentials
This is among the first things you should ask a tree service company for. You want a tree service that makes an effort to keep up with what’s the latest in the tree service industry. The ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) and TCIA (Tree Care Industry Association) are two of the most reputable organizations in the tree business. They both offer training programs for ISA Certified Arborists and Tree Risk Assessment qualifications. If the company you are looking to hire has affiliations with these big names in tree care, you can be confident that your concerns are being handled by only the best in the field.
Customer Reviews
Reviews are essential because they serve as windows to what the tree company really can offer. They come from people who have used the service, so they have the power to say whether the tree service is a real deal or if they’re mere talk. There are plenty of online review sites, including Facebook, Google, Angie’s List, and Yelp. Look for the general views of their customers about them, both positive and negative. It is also important to note how they respond when they get negative comments from their clients. Do they get mad, or do they address the issue tactfully and professionally?
Pricing
There are two major aspects of tree service; tree trimming and tree removal. When you are comparing the cost of the service of a tree company, it is important that you know what kind of service you require. In pruning, they should be able to tell you what type of pruning they will perform on your tree, the cuts, and how much of the total canopy they will remove. On the other hand, when you are looking to remove your tree, you need to make sure you know how your yard will appear once the project is done. Will they take care of the mess, or do you have to pay extra for them to do it? Don’t always settle for the lowest price because this often leads to accidents and damages because they hastily finish the task.
Insurance
There are two types of insurance involved in tree service: general liability and workers’ compensation. Both are essential because in case something goes wrong, you will be covered, and you don’t have to be liable for anything. When your house gets damaged during their time on your property, they will cover for the repair if they have general liability insurance. If one of their workers gets hurt while on the job, the tree company will be responsible for the medical expenses. These two insurances are crucial, so make sure to verify that their policy is up-to-date to avoid liability issues.
Equipment
You cannot use just the typical cutting tools to take down a large tree. Tree care, especially removal, requires the use of specialized equipment to ensure the task is done fast and safe. The right equipment will not only hasten the job but will prevent damages and injuries, as well. An established tree company will bank on modern equipment because they are aware of its importance in the business.