Hiring a tree service
Tree work spans everything from routine pruning to felling a 90-foot oak leaning over your roof, and the two ends of that range call for very different skills. For anything involving tree health — what to prune, whether a declining tree can be saved, how to protect roots during construction — look for an ISA Certified Arborist, a credential from the International Society of Arboriculture that requires documented experience and a rigorous exam. Many companies in this directory have certified arborists on staff; it is the single best filter in this industry.
The second-best filter is insurance, and it is non-negotiable: tree work is among the most dangerous trades in America, and if an uninsured crew drops a limb through your roof — or worse, a climber is hurt on your property — the liability can land on you. Ask for a certificate of insurance covering both general liability and workers' compensation, sent directly from the insurer. Be wary of door-knockers who appear after storms; reputable companies give free written estimates, and none of the good ones will offer to "top" your trees.
How much does tree removal cost?
Small trees might run $300–$700; a large mature tree in a tight spot between structures and power lines can run $1,500–$4,000 or more. Height, trunk diameter, access for equipment, and hazards drive the price. Stump grinding is almost always a separate line item — typically $100–$400 per stump — so ask whether your quote includes it and whether debris hauling is covered.
What is an ISA Certified Arborist?
A credential from the International Society of Arboriculture earned through a minimum of documented field experience plus a comprehensive exam covering tree biology, pruning standards, diagnosis, and safety — with continuing education to keep it current. You can verify anyone's certification on the ISA's public registry. For diagnosis, preservation, and structural pruning decisions, it is the qualification that matters.
How do I know a tree company is safe to hire?
Ask for proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance — a certificate sent from the insurance agent, not a photocopy — and check how long they've operated in your area. A crew without workers' comp can make their injury your homeowner's-insurance problem. Written estimates, no large cash deposits, and no pressure tactics are the other marks of a professional outfit.
Is topping a tree ever a good idea?
No. Topping — shearing the main branches down to stubs — is condemned by the ISA and every professional standard. It stresses the tree, invites decay, and the weakly attached regrowth becomes more dangerous than what was removed. A company that recommends topping is telling you to hire someone else. Proper crown reduction achieves the goal without ruining the tree.