How to Choose the best Tree Service Company

Trees are a vital part of any property. They can increase a property’s value with proper care and maintenance. Their beauty enhances aesthetics while providing shade, privacy and more.

While trees are strong, they aren’t always bulletproof to harsh weather conditions. When your trees become a liability and pose potential threats, finding the best tree service company to handle the maintenance is essential. You want to hire professionals you can trust to work around your home.

Here is a guide to selecting the right tree service company for your needs.

5 Questions to Consider

Tree services require expert arborists who know how to take care of trees, whether it requires trimming, fertilizing or removal. Before hiring anyone, conducting research is key to ensuring a safe, reliable and trustworthy company. Knowing the type of experience and handiwork you want can help you begin the search.

Here are five questions you should consider when looking for a tree service company:

1. Is the company licensed, insured and certified?
2. Does the company have prior experience?
3. Is the company reputable with current reviews and testimonials?
4. Does the company use proper equipment?
5. Does the company clean up after itself?

These questions can guide your search and ensure you find a company that meets your needs and expectations.

5 Tips for Finding the Best Tree Service Company

Your efforts in finding answers to the questions will help you find potential companies you wouldn’t mind working with. Here are five tips to follow when searching for quality tree services:

1. Conduct Extensive Research

Like with any new venture, research is crucial before making final decisions. Spend a significant amount of time researching your local tree service companies to find one you can trust. You want to know all your options for the best opportunity to receive quality results. As part of your research process, you can:

• Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations: Ask around your community for tree service referrals. Your friends and neighbors will be honest about their experiences with different companies. Obtaining information from people you trust can help you verify a company’s trustworthiness.
• Read online customer reviews: You should also read the customer reviews on a tree service company’s website and third-party review websites. Customers will give their thoughts about the services they received and may include pictures showing progress. Compare the different reviews to learn more about the companies and their benefits.
• Consider any specialization needs: If you have a non-native tree or a tree with a rare disease, look for a company with knowledge and services for your tree's particular needs. Ensure you find and receive confirmation that companies offer specialized services that will benefit you.
• Learn how much experience a company has: How much experience a company has makes it more credible. You are more likely to trust a company with a reputable history of servicing your area.
• Confirm the company has the proper equipment: Many tree services require special equipment to complete the jobs. You want to work with a business that has the right tools to efficiently and effectively perform its services.

2. Ask Questions and Make Sure You Get Answers

When you find potential companies to work with, call or meet with a representative to ask questions about their services, standards, processes and more. A qualified tree service company can provide answers to any questions you have. You can learn more about their services and professionalism by speaking directly with an employee.

3. Get Proof of Certification, Insurance and Licenses

Tree services often include dangerous work that can pose liability risks. Finding companies with viable certificates, equipment licenses and insurance is essential. While vetting potential companies, ask to see their certifications, permits and insurance policies.

A certified arborist keeps up with the industry's latest news, regulations and advancements. Companies with employees who continue learning about their field are a good indicator that they are professionals dedicated to their area. Ensuring the company and its employees have the proper licenses also helps you determine if they are reliable and have proper clearances to perform dangerous work.

Additionally, you don't want to be held liable if an accident occurs on your property during a job. A reputable service company will have its services insured and secured for customers. Your tree service company should easily comply to show proof of their liability and workers' compensation insurance. You can take your validation a step further by calling the insurance company to confirm the policies are still active.

4. Obtain Multiple Estimates

You should look at and talk with multiple companies throughout your research process. When you find companies to consider, ensure you obtain an estimate. A good strategy for finding the best price for your budget is receiving at least three quotes from three separate companies. While you could go with the first company you find, you won't know if you are getting the most cost-effective price for the needed services.

Having at least three estimates gives you a good idea of the average service cost and helps you make a more educated decision. Make sure you always get the quotes in writing. You can compare each company's services and pricing to ensure you get the best deal.

5. Consider the Price Carefully

Cost is always one of the most significant determining factors for people when choosing a service, and it’s no different for tree service companies. As you compare the various estimates you obtain, make sure the pricing matches what the services provide. Be wary of contractors offering unusually low prices and asking for upfront cash payments, as they could be inexperienced or unlicensed.

You want to work with arborists with legitimate branding, credentials and payment methods. A qualified company will accept payments as the work progresses instead of requesting it all upfront.

Receive Expert Tree Services from Richard’s Tree Service

The considerations you must make while finding the best tree service company ensure you receive the services you need. An expert arborist has the training and skills required to safely and efficiently maintain the trees on your property.

At Richard’s Tree Service, our arborists have a combined 75 years of experience providing tree services like pruning, removing, fertilizing and more. Our team is also fully licensed, bonded and insured, and we have experience working with trees of all shapes and sizes to maintain their health or remove them. Our services include both residential and commercial properties, and emergency services are available upon request.

Learn if Richard’s Tree Service can help you maintain the trees on your northern Virginia property by contacting us today for a free estimate!