With so many tree companies out there, it’s not always easy to know who you can trust. The estimate might sound good, but are they experienced? Are they insured? Before you let anyone touch a tree on your property, here are six smart questions to ask. These will help you avoid costly mistakes and make sure you’re hiring the right tree removal company in the Greater Baltimore Area.
Key Takeaways:
- Ask a company about their safety procedures and insurance coverage, as tree work is hazardous.
- Ensure the company you work with has a Licensed Tree Expert on staff to comply with Maryland laws.
- Ask about a company’s processes for doing the removal job and providing an estimate, so there are no surprises, and you can ensure they follow all proper procedures.
- Ask to see reviews so you can get a feel for the company’s work and how past customers felt about their experience.
6 Questions You Should Ask a Local Tree Removal Company
Before hiring any tree removal company, you’ll want to talk to them during the initial consultation to get a feel for the company and its operation. With the right questions, you can be confident that you are working with a qualified and experienced tree removal service.
Safety gear is vital when climbing trees.
1. What are your safety procedures?
“Safety first” is something you hear from every company, but few actually follow through on it. Before hiring a company, ask them about their safety procedures for the job. If they can’t give you any specifics, it may be a sign that they don’t take safety as seriously as they should.
Tree work is dangerous. In fact, it’s one of the most hazardous industries in the country. The Tree Care Industry Association, an organization dedicated to promoting safe and efficient tree work practices, reports that tree work has a fatality rate 30 times higher than the average.
Unfortunately, professionals and DIYers end up injured or dead doing tree work all the time. The Greater Baltimore Area saw it firsthand when a man died in Towson while cutting a tree.
Always work with a tree service that uses the proper safety equipment, the latest technology, and industry-standard procedures.
2. Do you have the necessary insurance for tree work?
A tree removal company must have a minimum of two forms of insurance: workers’ compensation and general liability.
Despite its name, general liability insurance is particular in its scope. Always ensure the company you work with has liability insurance for tree removal. Some less reputable companies may try to save money on expensive insurance for tree removals with a cheaper alternative that won’t cover any accidents.
Due to the dangerous nature of the work, workers’ compensation insurance for tree services is expensive. However, it is necessary to protect everyone in the event of an accident or injury during the job.
Before hiring a company, ask to see their certificate of insurance. If they aren’t willing to share it with you, they may not have the proper insurance, or it could be expired. If a tree removal company doesn’t have insurance and an accident happens, you may be responsible for paying for any damage or medical bills.
3. Do you have a Licensed Tree Expert on staff?
To do tree work in Maryland, a tree removal company must employ a Licensed Tree Expert (LTE). To become an LTE, an individual must have a combination of education and experience and pass an exam.
When talking to an estimator, ask if the company employs an LTE. If you want to verify, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources provides an online tool to look up LTEs.
4. What is the process you will use to remove the tree?
Every tree removal job is different. The techniques and equipment you use to remove a dead tree near a home differ from those for tree removal in an open field.
When you discuss with the estimator during the initial consultation, ask about the process the team will use to take care of the tree. Will they use a crane? Will they have climbers in the tree? How will they dispose of the debris? Their answers will give you a clear picture of how they work and whether they’re the kind of team you want on your property.
5. Can you provide recommendations from previous customers?
If a company has been around long enough, it should have plenty of customer feedback from previous jobs. You can ask for customer testimonials when you meet with an estimator or search online for the company’s reviews.
Try to single out any reviews focused on tree removal and see what the customers say. Look for mentions of their cleanup process or safety procedures. If you like what you hear, it may be a sign that this is a company you can trust.
6. What is the estimate process like?
There are an unfortunate number of incidents where someone agrees to a price verbally with someone to remove their tree, only to find that the bill comes due at a different cost. To prevent this kind of situation from happening, ensure that a company has a thorough estimate process that guarantees a fair deal.
Avoid any company that won’t give you a written estimate. A thorough written estimate outlining the job’s scope and how much it will cost is vital to ensure you get the service you asked for at an agreed upon price.
Frequently Asked Questions About Choosing a Tree Removal Company
Want to learn more about how to pick the right tree removal company or how tree removal works? We’ve answered some of the common questions homeowners have for us on the subject to help you stay informed.
Should I get more than one estimate for tree removal?
Yes, it is often best to get multiple estimates before hiring a tree removal company. Comparing multiple estimates allows you to find the service that fits your needs and one you trust to do the best job for your trees.
Why shouldn’t you go with the cheapest estimate for tree removal?
A deal for tree removal may look good at first glance, but in reality, it can cost you in the long run. Some contractors or disreputable companies attempt to cut corners by not carrying insurance or having a proper team. When you see a deal that looks like it’s too good to be true, it often is.
When is the best time to remove a tree?
If a tree is dangerous, the best time to remove it is as soon as possible to increase safety. If you can afford to wait a little bit, winter is usually the best time to remove trees. Winter tree removal is often easier thanks to the frozen ground and the lack of leaves on the trees, making cleanup much easier.
Trust the Tree Removal Company That Answers Every Question
Not every company can back up its promises. At A-AAA Tree Service, we welcome your questions because we have nothing to hide. We’re fully insured, equipped for tough jobs, committed to doing things the right way, and have hundreds of 5-star reviews to back up our claims.
If you’re looking for safe and professional tree removal in the Greater Baltimore Area, please give us a call at 410-321-0921 or use our online form.
Andrew Senker got his first chance at management in 2003 when he started an IT consulting company that worked with some of the largest banks in the world. After 7 years with the firm, he transitioned to the wireless sector for 13 years, lending his expertise and ability to manage people and projects. In 2022, he purchased A-AAA Tree Service, determined to bring his knowledge to the tree service industry.
Related Articles
Your Seasonal Tree Trimming Guide for the Greater Baltimore Area
Think twice before you prune. Seasonal tree trimming in Baltimore helps avoid stress, prevent disease & ensure your trees get the right care at the right time.
6 Questions to Ask a Tree Removal Company Before You Hire Them
Not all tree removal companies are equal. Here are 6 questions to ask before you hire – from the team that’s earned the trust of Greater Baltimore homeowners.
6 Trimming Mistakes You May Be Making with Your Trees
Did you know some common trimming mistakes can kill your trees? Learn more about what to do (and not to do) in the Greater Baltimore Area when trimming trees.
