Let us talk about hiring a tree service. This is not rocket science, but there are some things you need to know. You need to protect your home as well as your wallet as well as your trees. We have seen it all here in Menlo Park. There has been good work as well as bad work as well as everything in between. This is how you can make sure you are getting the right crew for the Tree Service job.
What to Ask Before They Even Touch a Branch
You would not hire someone to rebuild your kitchen without asking questions. The same goes for your trees. These are not just plants. They are valuable assets, especially with our mature oaks as well as redwoods around Menlo Park. Here is what you need to nail down for your Tree Service project:
- Are you licensed and insured? This is not a suggestion. It is a requirement for Tree Service work. In California, a contractor needs to be licensed if a project costs over $500. For Tree Service work, they should have a C-49 Tree and Palm Contractor license. They also need general liability insurance, usually $1 million or more. In addition, they need workers' compensation. Why does this matter to you? If someone gets hurt on your property or your fence gets smashed, you could be responsible if they are not properly covered. You should ask for current certificates for their Tree Service business. Do not just take their word for it.
- Do you have certified arborists on staff? An ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) Certified Arborist knows a lot about tree health as well as pruning techniques as well as safety. They are not just guys with chainsaws. They are tree experts. You should ask for their certification number so you can verify it yourself.
- How will you approach the job and what equipment will you use? This tells you if they have thought through the Tree Service project. Are they going to drive heavy equipment all over your lawn? Will they use spikes on trees that are not being removed? Spikes are bad for living trees. A good company, like All Things Tree, will explain their plan to protect your property as well as the tree itself.
- What is your cleanup plan? You do not want to be left with a yard full of branches as well as sawdust after a Tree Service project. Make sure the quote specifies debris removal as well as site cleanup.
- Can you provide references? A reputable Tree Service company will be happy to give you a few names of recent customers. You should call them. Ask if they were satisfied. Ask if the work was done on time. Also ask if there were any unexpected issues.
- What about permits? Especially here in Menlo Park, you will need a permit if you are dealing with a heritage tree. This is for removal or significant pruning, which is more than 25% of the crown or roots. The city arborist will review it. Make sure your Tree Service contractor understands the local permit process. Also make sure they know whether they will handle it or if it is on you.
Decoding the Quote: What to Look For
You will probably get a few quotes for your Tree Service project. They might look totally different. Do not just go for the cheapest one. Here is what a good quote should include:
- Clear Scope of Work: It needs to spell out exactly what they are doing for each tree. Not just ---