Questions to ask your tree service company

 Tree care can be challenging on different levels. It requires skill and experience because there are risks involved that cannot be neglected. For this reason, tree care should be left to the expert hands of tree professionals. However, hiring a tree company to handle the job is not as easy as well. How can you tell if the company is the best choice for the role? What is the assurance that you can get the best service and the best value for your money? To help you make a sound decision on who you should hire for tree care, here are some of the most critical questions you should ask a tree service company.

1. Do they have the latest certificate of insurance and a copy of their contract? Some homeowners who fail to ask this question fall victim to companies that are not insured. This is essential information about the company because you don't want to be held liable if anyone gets injured or anything gets damaged in your property while they perform tree care.
2. What are their credentials? Do not consider a company unless they have an in-house arborist who is certified by an International Society of Arboriculture or Tree Care Industry Association Accredited Business. If they fail to provide you with their credentials, jump to the next company on your list.
3. Can they provide you with references? Every reputable tree company would have a list of their satisfied clients and can offer you some, upon request. Look for recent referrals because you can get more reliable information from them.  Further ask for referral relative to the service you require.  That is, if you are considering a tree removal service then ask about past customers that use them for that same service.  
4. Can they provide you with a detailed written estimate? Don't stick with just one company. Get at least three written estimates from different companies. The estimate should outline information about the details of the service including the duration and its cost.
5. What equipment will they use? A professional tree company will not use heavy equipment in your yard if they know it will damage your lawn and other plantings in the yard. It doesn't hurt to ask their policy about damaging any objects in your yard. You should also ask them about clean-up and what it includes.
6. How long will the project take? You should go back to the written estimate because companies can finish the job in different durations. You can hold them accountable in case they don't stand by their word in the written estimate.
7. Do they show professionalism? Notice the small details of a tree company. Do they maintain their tools and trucks? Do they reply or call back promptly when you contact them? You can also check their website, if they, to find out more about their services and history.
8. How long have they been in the tree industry? The more seasoned a tree professional is, the better he can handle any tree care needs you have.
9. Do they practice "topping?" If they do, run away from them because topping can have irreversible damage to the health of your tree. An experienced tree company knows the right technique in trimming and pruning, which doesn't include topping.
10.  Do they use protective equipment while on the job? It is a must for tree experts to wear safety gears for protection. No matter how simple the task is, they are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to wear protective equipment.