Tree care is dangerous work and choosing a certified arborist is prudent both for your own safety and for the health of your trees.

There are a lot of “tree companies” out there, but not all of them are trained tree care service providers who have the knowledge and skills needed to protect your trees, property, and investment. Tree care includes regular care, preventative maintenance, or prescriptive care for distressed trees, as well as removal when necessary.

Whether you need help with pruning, advice on tree health, or need to have a tree removed, we encourage you to take the time to find a qualified tree professional. Good tree work can be expensive, so it pays to shop around by getting multiple quotes and checking references. Do not rush into a decision because a contractor offers a discount if you sign a contract immediately. In fact, if you are feeling pressured by a contractor, it is probably a good signal to keep looking.

Questions that will help in selecting a professional to help with your tree needs.

· Do they employ ISA-certified arborists?

Look for professional association memberships with organizations like the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA), the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), and the National Arborist Association (NAA). While membership in any of these organizations is good, only ISA has a certification program, so look for the ISA-certified arborist logo.

· Do they understand the local tree protection ordinance?

Determine if they know about local, state, and/or federal laws that require them to get permits before work is performed. Keep in mind that if work is performed without required permits, the homeowner is ultimately responsible and could be faced with fines or other penalties.

· Is the business licensed?

Ask to see the company’s business license and confirm that it is current.

· Does the business carry necessary insurance?

Ask for proof of workers compensation and personal and property damage insurance. Verify that each policy is current by calling insurance carriers. This helps protect homeowners from being responsible for injuries or property damages that result from the work.

· Will the business provide references?

Request a few local references and to see some of the contractor’s previous work. Call the references and ask questions including if the person would hire the business in the future.

· Will the business put price estimates in writing?

Get written estimates, even if it costs to have an estimate completed. Ensure that estimates include credentials, written scope of work to be performed, and all costs. Compare quotes on the basis of services to be performed and costs for each service. (If a certified arborist only performs consultations, ask for recommendations for certified arborists who actually perform tree maintenance or removal and compare quotes with others.)

· Will the business provide and execute a written contract?

Demand that work only start once a contract is signed by both parties. Read contracts carefully before signing. Verify that contracts detail when work will be started and completed, which party is responsible for clean-up, the total price, and the arborist’s hourly rate for additional work approved by the customer.

Find A Certified Arborist