Having trees around your home can improve your health, the home’s curb appeal, and its market value. But the Keyrenter Premier Management team warns trees in the yard can also create a nuisance. Their branches can reach the house and damage the roof during strong winds. Tree roots may damage the home’s foundation, plumbing, utility pipes, and driveway. Also, falling branches pose a danger to humans, pets, and vehicles. Dead trees can become a breeding ground for pests and diseases.
While you should have as many trees as possible in your yard, you should also control their growth carefully. That is what tree care companies, arborists, and tree contractors help you do. They carry out a range of tree maintenance tasks, from tree trimming to tree bracing, repair, preservation, planting, fertilization, and pruning, among a lot of other services. Tree service companies help you to get the most out of having trees in your yard.
However, apply caution when hiring a tree service company. In 2019, the tree service industry was the sixth most complained about business, according to the Better Business Bureau (BBB). That is because several so-called tree service companies are unqualified individuals who think being a tree service company is about knowing how to use a chainsaw. So before you hire a tree service firm, you should check to make sure you are talking to the right people.
If you are looking for a tree service company, what are the things you should look out for to avoid getting scammed and also ensure you get the best professionals in the industry?
Steps to finding the best tree service company
1. Check licenses and permits
Tree care companies need to have the necessary license before performing tree services in the area. The company should be able to show you verifiable copies of their current licenses. If the particular tree care service you want needs a permit, they should get it.
2. Adequate insurance
Several accidents happen every day from homeowners and unqualified persons who attempt to undertake tree care by themselves. The company must have general liability insurance to protect you and their employees. Copies of the company’s insurance should come directly from the insurance agency and not from the tree care company itself.
3. Local experience
Local experience is vital because trees, soils, and climate vary by region. And a company with familiarity in another area may not be well-equipped for your location. Find out how long the company has been operating in the area. The local experience also ensures that the tree care company is familiar with local regulations.
4. A stellar reputation
When you hire a tree service company, you are putting the safety of your home – one of your most valuable assets – into their hands. The least the company can do is demonstrate its trustworthiness by providing a list of past customers who can vouch for them. You should also check Yelp, BBB, and other services for reviews of the company.
5. Up-to-date and adequate equipment
There are ranges of services included in tree care, and each one requires its own set of equipment and tools. The company should have the right tools and equipment for your particular job. Although it is alright for a company to lease equipment, a company that owns its equipment is more established and experienced.
6. Free consultations
Does the tree service company offer free consultations and price estimates? The best companies will begin the relationship with a free consultation. That will often include a visit to the location for hazard evaluation, aerial inspection, and structural tree analysis. These will form the basis for the free estimate they provide.
7. Estimates and payment
Are they too cheap, and how do their estimates compare to quotes from other companies? The company should explain their charges. And the payment terms should not leave you exposed; if a company asks for upfront payments, avoid them. You should get estimates from three companies at least.
8. Guarantees
Especially after a disaster, there will be a rash of tree care services knocking at your door. But are these established companies, and do they offer guarantees for any services they offer? Are they going to provide a written contract? And even if they do provide an agreement, will you be able to find the company in case of default?
