5 Things to Ask When Hiring an Arborist

Before you let anyone enter your property, it is imperative that you know they are trustworthy, especially when they are going to deal with your trees. You want to make sure they know what they are doing and that they have the necessary documents, as well as equipment to complete any tree project. If you don't ask them questions, there is a good chance you will end up being scammed, or your trees will suffer a great deal. Here are some of the most important questions you should ask the tree company you wish to hire.

Are they fully insured and certified?
This is perhaps the most critical question to ask your tree service company. A reputable company will have licensing and insurance documentation as proof of their professionalism. Tree work is not as simple as a walk in the park, and there are risks involved. If the company you hired doesn't have liability insurance, you will be the one responsible for any injury or damage they make in your property.

Ask them about workplace safety insurance, to ensure they protect their employees as they do your trees. This type of insurance is not a prerequisite for a tree care company, but a company that has it shows conscientiousness in the job.

The ISA, on the other hand, is a certifying authority that mandates arborists to continue updating their knowledge about tree care. A certified arborist always has up-to-date ISA training about safety techniques and methods that will benefit trees.


What is their experience in the field?
You should ask an arborist the following questions if you desire to use their service:

• How many years have you been in the industry of tree care?
• Who did you get your training from?
• Where and when did you receive your certifications and current training?

Don't get easily swayed by smooth-talk. Not all Lincoln tree service companies are the same, meaning that not every company gives the same quality of service. Make sure to do business with a tree service that is always up-to-date when it comes to their skills and practices.

It is essential to get the service of a company that has encountered the same tree situation that you have because it would be easier for them to complete the job that way. With tree removal, the process can be straightforward, and the result can be seen in an instant. However, with pruning and trimming, the evidence of incorrect execution will be present for as long as your tree stands in your yard. Your trees can suffer from irreversible damage and injury if you hire a company that doesn't understand the process well.

What is their reputation in the local community?
We are in the digital age where you can find almost everything on the Internet, including reviews about tree care services. You want to make sure you only hire the best and the most reputable company in your local area. Thanks to the Internet, you are one click away to finding that out. If you don't want to use online reviews, you can also choose to ask your friends and neighbors who recently have their trees maintained or removed.

Also, learn information about the service the company offers. Are they active in volunteering in your community? A good company is respected in the community because of the quality of their work. Hire a company not just because someone you know, knows them, but because you trust the quality of their service.

Further, make sure that the company has experience in the line of tree work you require. Just because they are good at tree removals doesn't mean they can prune your trees properly as well. These two services are different, so make sure you choose the one that best fits your situation.

What kind of equipment does the business use?
Using an aerial lift or climbing the tree with safety harnesses are two of the most common ways to work with trees. These two methods differ for some reasons, and the other one is preferred over the other in certain situations.

• Aerial Lifts - Using aerial lifts is the best method to use if the tree has compromised structural integrity. You don't have to rely on the tree for safety which lessens the hazard in the part of the climber. Aerial lifts are ideal for removing trees with easy access and those near roads.  The only con with using aerial lifts is that it can be challenging to maneuverer it when the tree has a thick crown. Specific pruning methods can be challenging to accomplish with aerial lifts.
• Climbing Arborists - There is no need for heavy equipment when the arborist uses the climbing method. Climbing arborist method is used in backyards with tight spaces where access is more difficult. Climbing a tree can also be an opportunity for the arborist to inspect it because it can get a closer look of the tree. Shaping the tree can also be done more efficiently with climbing arborists.
• Ladders - Using a ladder is the least favorite way to access a tree because of the danger it comes with. Ladders should only be used with small trees. This method is not popular among the experts, so be wary of those who use this approach.

What clean-up is included in their pricing?
You should make this information clear with the tree company you wish to hire because some companies may not include this or only have specific inclusions in their pricing. Make sure that they will take away all debris and tree parts that the tree care caused. You want your property to be restored to its previous state, without any trace of dirt and hazardous situations.

The clean-up can drive the pricing up because it would take more time and effort to perform the job. If you think you can handle the clean-up on your own, you can request for no clean-up but if you want to save yourself from the hassle and inconvenience of hauling debris away, ask your tree company to do it for you, for an added cost.