Hiring a Tree Service

After significant storms individuals with pickup trucks and chainsaws who call themselves tree specialists often cruise through neighborhoods and knock on people's doors offering "cheap" tree cleanup.

Knowing how to hire a reputable arborist can help prevent becoming a victim all over again.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) offers these tips on hiring an arborist:

  • Certification
    Ask if the arborists on staff hold ISA certification. ISA offers a range of certification credentials from Certified Tree Worker/Climber Specialist to Board Certified Master Arborist. To be certified, individuals must pass a voluntary comprehensive exam.
  • Professional Affiliation
    Ask about membership in professional organizations, such as the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and/or one of its chapters, the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), or the American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA).
  • Advertisement
    Check the local yellow pages directory or newspaper for arborists who list themselves as ISA Certified Arborists or who display the official logos of professional membership. Also look for logos of business accreditation by organizations, such as The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), which requires they have an ISA Certified Arborist on staff. Or visit Good Tree Care to find a local Certified Arborist.
  • Insurance
    Ask for proof of insurance and then verify coverage with the insurance company. A reputable arborist should have insurance to cover personal and property damage as well as worker's compensation. If you hire an uninsured tree expert, you can be held liable for any damages or injuries that occur while they are on the job.
  • References
    Ask for references from past customers and do not hesitate to check them.
  • Estimates
    Don't be afraid to ask for a written estimate, and it is ok to get more than one estimate. Take the time to be an informed consumer and prevent yourself from becoming victimized.
  • Do not pay for the job until everything agreed upon is completed.