Getting the Right Care for Your Trees

Sometimes I recommend that a listener contact a professional tree care specialist or an arborist when there is a tricky or seemingly serious situation with a tree. Trees are extremely valuable to an individual home and to the community environment, as well. We all want to be sure that our neighborhood trees get the attention and care they need.

But, how do you choose someone to look after that tree and solve its problems?

Here are some basic tips from the Tree Care Industry Association. See their website for more.

• Seek recommendations from neighbors, friends or business associates who you know have had professional tree care work done in the past. Local references allow you to measure the company’s abilities and professionalism.

• Ask for copies of current, valid certificates of insurance. Ask to see current certificates of liability and workers' compensation insurance, if applicable.

• Verify professional affiliations the company might have

• Get a detailed written estimate of the work needed and the cost.

• Don't be rushed by a bargain, don't pay in advance, and do get another estimate or opinion of the needed work.

• Get estimates in writing and agree to a written work order.

• Insist on a signed contract as to cost, dates when work is to be performed, and exactly what is to be done.

• A professional arborist will be aware of the current safety, pruning, fertilizing, and cabling standards.

The Better Business Bureau also has a brochure with some great advice.

Here are three organizations that train tree care professionals and inspect tree care businesses to help you establish the credentials of the company and staff that will assist you.

American Society of Consulting Arborists
International Society of Arboriculture
The Tree Care Industry Association

Trees are a wonderful resource for our community; let’s take good care of them.