Selecting a Good Tree Service Company
Selecting a good tree service company doesn't have to be overly difficult if you follow some of these suggestions and use the criteria below. Tree service work can be dangerous and expensive. As a result, you want to use a company that is fully insured and well qualified.
Insured and Licensed
All good tree service companies will be licensed in the state of Florida. This doesn't necessarily ensure quality but it does suggest they are serious enough to be licensed. Further, the licensing process costs money, which is another indication they have invested in their business.
The proper insurance is paramount when using a tree contractor. Tree work is dangerous and accidents can happen. They should have two types of insurance: umbrella liability coverage and worker's compensation. Liability coverage protects the property owner against any damage that could occur during the course of the job. While it is rare with good companies, property damage to homes has happened. With an umbrella liability policy, you are protected against the cost to repair this damage. The second insurance requirement is worker's compensation. A tree care company must have this coverage to protect their customers against a claim by one of their employees should they get hurt on the job. Without these two coverages, you could be liable under your homeowner's policy. Always ask to see copies of both policies during the estimate process.
The proper insurance is paramount when using a tree contractor. Tree work is dangerous and accidents can happen. They should have two types of insurance: umbrella liability coverage and worker's compensation. Liability coverage protects the property owner against any damage that could occur during the course of the job. While it is rare with good companies, property damage to homes has happened. With an umbrella liability policy, you are protected against the cost to repair this damage. The second insurance requirement is worker's compensation. A tree care company must have this coverage to protect their customers against a claim by one of their employees should they get hurt on the job. Without these two coverages, you could be liable under your homeowner's policy. Always ask to see copies of both policies during the estimate process.
Written Estimate
Do not do business with any company that does not provide a written estimate. There have been occasions where the contractor raises the price of the job after the work is completed; and with a written estimate, you have no recourse. Further, a written estimate is necessary to help you understand the details of the cost as well as the specific scope of the work. Lastly, a written tree service estimate will aid you in comparing competing bids. When comparing estimates, always ensure the exact scope of work has been bid so you are evaluating apples-to-apple.
References and Reviews
Always ask for three current references of past customers. Ideally, these should be within the past few months so they are representative of their current business practices. Friends and family are other great sources for references, but not always available. Lastly, check online review sources such as Yelp, Google, and the Better Business Bureau. While fraudulent reviews can be posted, generally these review sources can provide you with a general sense of the company's quality.
Other Considerations
Other less important but noteworthy criteria are credentials and equipment. The tree care industry has a number of recognized associations and memberships that many good tree care companies will belong to. These include:
These organizations provide credentials and further education for serious, professional tree care businesses.
One last suggestion when utilizing the services of a tree care company: never pay for 100% of the service prior to the work being completed. If you do and are unsatisfied with the job, you have little recourse. Ideally, pay not more than 25% to 50% in advance, holding back the remainder until the job is complete and you are pleased with the work.
For more information about tree trimming vs. tree removal please click here.