Questions You Should Ask Any Tree Service Company Before Hiring Them

Whether you need tree removal from your property or want to maintain the trees already on your land, many factors should be considered before hiring a professional tree service company. To help you make the best choice possible, consider these eight questions to ask any tree service company before reaching an agreement.

1. How Long Have You Been In Business?

This is one of the most important questions you should ask. A tree service company that's been in business for a long time is more likely to be trustworthy and dependable than those new in the industry.

2. Do You Have References?

Any reputable tree service company will have satisfied customers that will gladly talk about their experience working with the company. If a prospective arborist or tree care professional does not want to provide references, look elsewhere for the services you need.

A tree service company should be able to provide references upon request. However, make sure you're clear about what exactly you want these references for. If you want to know about their expertise and reliability, ask for past clients whose trees were similar in size and type to those you have growing on your property.

If you want to know about their professionalism and customer service, it may be best to ask for current clients they are working with. You can also request references from subcontractors they regularly hire, such as crane operators or arborists.

Some companies will have a list of testimonials on their website or other marketing materials, and other companies will have a separate portfolio of projects they've completed in the past. Both of these resources can help you decide if a particular tree service is right for you.

3. Do You Have Insurance?

Hiring an uninsured company can be quite risky as you will be liable for any damages or injuries during the process. Always make sure that the tree service company you're considering hiring has proper insurance coverage.

4. Do You Have Proper Licensing?

Most states require tree services to have a license to operate within their borders. Make sure they have a license before you hire them, or you could face hefty fines if they get caught working without one.

5. Do You Provide Free Estimates?

A reputable tree service company should provide free estimates so you can compare quotes from different companies before deciding which one to hire. And once they have visited your property, they should give you a written estimate of the work that needs to be done and the cost of providing their services. This can help ensure no hidden costs or surprise charges when the tree removal project is finished.

6. What Services Do You Provide?

You must hire a tree service that can complete the task at hand. Some companies specialize in certain areas of tree care, whether residential or commercial, while others focus on a specific aspect of arboriculture like trimming or removal. You want to ensure that the company you're hiring has experience with your type of project, so there are no surprises when they show up to do the job!

7. What Kind Of Equipment Do You Use?

The type of equipment used can significantly impact the quality and cost of the job being done by a tree service company. Companies that specialize in residential work may not handle larger jobs such as commercial or industrial sites. In contrast, companies specializing in large-scale jobs may not be willing to take on smaller residential projects. Know what kind of equipment each company uses before making your decision, so you can ensure they have the right tools for the job.

8. Will You Remove Any Debris?

Some essential tree services, including pruning and removal, can leave behind large amounts of debris in your yard. If this is not something you're able to deal with yourself, make sure that the cost of removing debris is part of the estimate provided by the business you choose to hire.

The Key - Keep Yourself Informed

At Timber Ridge Tree Care, we are experts in tree care. So, whether you're a homeowner or a business with tree-related needs, understanding the kind of service you should be looking for can help you learn the right questions to ask and get the experience that makes the most sense for your situation. At Timber Ridge Tree Care, we can answer any of your questions about services or prepare for emergencies. Give us a call today to learn more!