1. Research Potential Companies Thoroughly
Choosing a reliable tree service company is an important decision when you need work done on your property. Taking the time to thoroughly research potential companies before hiring can help ensure you find an experienced, reputable provider.
Get Recommendations from Friends and Neighbors
Start your search by asking people you know for recommendations. Friends, family, neighbors or coworkers who have hired a tree service before can provide firsthand insights on companies they were satisfied with. Ask about the specific work they had done, if the company communicated well, and if they would hire them again. Word of mouth is often one of the best ways to find a quality tree service.
Use social media to ask for recommendations that others in your area have used before.
Something as simple as “Looking for a tree removal company” will get plenty of helpful responses.
Check Online Reviews
Once you have a few potential companies in mind, look up online reviews. Check ratings and comments on various review sites to get a consensus on the quality of work each company provides. Pay attention to how professional the responses from the company are to any negative reviews. A company that acknowledges mistakes and offers remedies demonstrates good customer service.
Check these websites for reviews, as a start.
- Google Business Profile
- Yelp
- Trust Pilot
- BBB
Verify Licenses and Certifications
Make sure any company you consider hiring has all the required state and local licenses to operate legally in your area. You can typically find license numbers right on the company’s website or by calling and asking. Also look for International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) certified arborists on staff. This certification indicates specialized skills and knowledge for tree care.
Confirm They Have Insurance
It’s crucial that any tree service company you hire has both general liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance. Liability coverage helps protect you in case of property damage during work. Workers’ comp covers medical care for employees injured on the job. Confirm current certificates of insurance before scheduling service.
2. Evaluate Bids Thoughtfully
Once you’ve researched potential tree service companies, the next step is carefully evaluating any bids or estimates you receive. The bidding process allows you to compare your options and understand exactly what services each company recommends.
Get Estimates from 3 Companies
Request estimates from at least 3 highly rated tree services. Having multiple bids allows you to compare factors like price, level of service, and what specific work each company recommends. Never go with the lowest bid alone—make sure to evaluate experience and reputation as well.
Get Quotes in Writing
Reputable companies will provide written estimates detailing exactly what work they will perform. Get quotes in writing from all companies you are considering. Estimates should specify what tree removal, trimming, or other services they recommend and where on your property work will be done.
Watch for Red Flags
Use common sense when evaluating bids. Be wary of estimates that seem extremely low compared to others—this may indicate corner cutting or inferior work. Also watch for red flags like door-to-door solicitors offering tree services with no established business credentials.
Hire a Reputable Professional
After thoroughly researching potential tree companies and evaluating your options, the final step is hiring a professional you can trust to safely complete quality work.
Make Payments Only When Satisfied
Reputable companies typically require a deposit but don’t ask for full payment until the job is complete and you have inspected the work. Make final payment only once you are fully satisfied with the finished work.
By taking time to hire an established, credentialed tree care company, you can feel confident about the work performed on your property. A professional tree service delivers quality results safely and efficiently.
