When hiring tree care professionals:
- Check for proof of insurance, including proof of liability for personal and property damage, and worker’s compensation.
- Look for certification from the International Society of Arboriculture or other professional organizations such as the Tree Care Industry Association.
- Seek out more than one estimate and make sure you receive cost estimates in writing.
- Never feel pressured to rush into an agreement and never pay in advance.
- Beware of people who go door-to-door offering bargains for tree work.
- Ask for references from other jobs the company has done and even talk to former clients (not always possible in a storm damage situation).
A good arborist or tree care company will:
- Offer a range of services including pruning, removal, pest control, not just tree removals.
- Never recommend topping a tree, only corrective pruning after damage to the tree crown.
- Never use climbing spikes on a healthy tree unless it is being removed.
- Never be eager to remove a healthy, living tree. Removals should be the last resort.
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