When you have a problem with your trees, such as overgrowth or damage from storms, it is time to hire a tree service. But how do you choose the right one?
It is important to ask a lot of questions before hiring any company. Here are the top ten to get you started:
Safety
Tree trimming is dangerous work, and accidents can happen. But a good tree service company takes steps to ensure the safety of its workers. This includes creating an emergency action plan, providing first aid training, and establishing effective communication protocols. These measures help reduce the risk of injuries and property damage. They also ensure that workers are ready to handle any unexpected emergencies that may arise during the job.
One of the most common causes of tree-related accidents is falling limbs and debris. A well-trained team will use proper rigging techniques to safely lower materials to the ground, and they will take precautions to protect any structures or landscape features that may be near the work area. This may include using protective barriers, utilizing cranes, or employing other strategies.
Another common safety hazard is contact with overhead power lines. An employee who misjudges the distance between an energized line and their tool or equipment can experience severe electrocution. This can be caused by direct contact with the wire or indirect contact, such as when a tree limb touches a power line and then falls onto the employee. A qualified tree worker should be able to determine the best way to approach a tree without touching it, and they should conduct regular inspections of their equipment to identify any potential problems.
Other safety issues include tripping hazards and improper ladder use. Insufficient training or improper maintenance of tools and equipment can increase the likelihood of accidents. Regular inspections should be performed to ensure that all employees have access to the appropriate safety gear and are able to operate it properly. Workers should always wear hard hats and other protective gear while working at heights above 6 feet. They should also use lanyards and safety harnesses to prevent falls from the highest branches of the tree.
Reputation
Anyone can buy a chainsaw and put an ad in the paper calling themselves tree service, but doing tree work is dangerous and requires specialized knowledge. Look for a reputable company with a good business reputation, a license to do work in your area, and proof of insurance. This includes liability and worker’s compensation. This protects you if someone gets injured on your property while working on a tree or if they damage something in the process of removing it.
Ask for references and recommendations from friends, neighbors, and local businesses. This is a great way to get a feel for the quality of work and customer service of a specific tree service. You can also check the company’s website for reviews and ratings. A good reputation is a key indicator that the company will do an excellent job on your trees and leave your yard looking beautiful.
Another thing to look for is whether or not the company has a certified arborist on staff. If they do, make sure to ask them about their experience and education. An arborist is a professional who specializes in the care of trees and shrubs. They are highly trained and can offer a variety of services, including tree removal, trimming, and stump grinding.
If a company doesn’t have an arborist on staff, you should consider using a different one. Look for companies that have accreditation from well-known industry organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture or the Tree Care Industry Association. These organizations keep their members up to date on the latest best practices in the industry, which can help you save or remove a tree with the least amount of risk and damage.
Pricing varies from company to company, and it is important to compare estimates. Find out what is included in each quote and whether or not they charge extra for things like equipment rental or stump removal. Ask each company for their insurance information and ask to see proof of coverage. Be wary of a company that offers very low prices, as they may be cutting corners or lacking in skills and training.
Insurance
When hiring a tree service, it’s important to verify that they have adequate insurance coverage. This will help to ensure that any injuries or damage caused by the company’s work won’t fall on you (pun intended). You should also ask for proof of insurance before signing a contract. This should be a valid certificate that comes directly from the tree service’s insurer. This will help to avoid fake certificates that are common in this industry.
A good tree service should have general liability coverage. This will pay for third-party accidents that occur while they are working on a client’s property. For example, if a branch falls on a house or car, this policy will cover the costs of repairs. In addition, a tree service should also have commercial auto insurance in case they need to haul tools or equipment between job sites.
Many states require tree services to have workers’ compensation insurance. This will protect employees from medical bills and lost wages if they are injured on the job. If a tree service doesn’t carry this insurance, it could be a sign that they are not taking care of their employees.
If a tree service does not have this type of insurance, it’s best to look for another company. Not only does this put your property at risk, but it may also affect the quality of their work. A well-insured tree service will be able to provide you with high-quality work while keeping you safe.
To find the best tree service, you should look for a policy that includes all of the insurances mentioned above. For example, Next’s tree service insurance provides general liability and commercial auto coverage for a discounted price. It also offers a business owner’s policy, which saves you money by bundling all of your policies into one. Plus, you can add additional insureds for free. This is great for small businesses that are just starting out. You can even get a free quote to see how much it will cost.
Customer Service
Trees add a lot of beauty and value to your property. From the small saplings that are part of a new garden to mighty oaks that are part of your home’s history, they are an important aspect of any property. However, they require proper maintenance to ensure their health. This is why you should always consider hiring a local tree service to help with all of your needs.
While word of mouth and referrals are often the main marketing channels for tree services, they should also invest in online and offline marketing. This will help them get a wider customer base and increase their brand recognition. They can do this by using social media, creating a website, and distributing flyers.
A good tree service will provide their clients with a free estimate for the job they are requesting. They will also be able to explain the process and any related costs. You should also check for licenses, certification, and insurance before you hire a company. It is also best to avoid companies that offer too low of an estimate.
Asking about the equipment that a tree service uses is another important question. You will want to know if they have all of the necessary tools, including cranes, for the specific task at hand. Moreover, they should be able to tell you whether they own their equipment or if they use subcontractors for certain projects. It is important to know whether the subcontractors are OSHA certified and have all of the appropriate safety gear.
You should also make sure to check if the tree service you are considering is insured. This will protect you if they are injured or damage your property during the project. In addition, you should check for workers’ compensation and personal property damage insurance coverage.
You should also find out how long the company has been in business. You do not want to work with a tree service that is new and inexperienced. Look for a company that has been around for at least 10 years and has a proven track record of success.