Don't Just Pick the First Guy with a Chainsaw
So, you've got a tree that needs some work. Maybe it's overgrown, leaning a little too close to the house, or just looking sickly. Whatever the reason, you know you need a professional. But how do you pick one? It's not like buying a gallon of milk; you can't just grab the cheapest one and hope for the best. This is your property, your safety, and a good chunk of change we're talking about.
I've been doing this a long time here in Helena, and I've seen it all. Good work, bad work, and everything in between. I want to give you a straightforward guide on how to hire a tree service that'll do the job right, keep you safe, and won't leave you with a headache or a bigger mess than you started with.
Questions You Absolutely Need to Ask
Before anyone even steps foot on your property with a quote, you should be asking some basic questions. Don't feel like you're bothering them; a good company will be happy to answer.
- Are you licensed and insured? This is non-negotiable. If they say no, or hem and haw, end the conversation right there. You need proof of general liability insurance and workers' compensation. If someone gets hurt on your property and they're not insured, guess who's on the hook? You are.
- Can you provide references? A reputable company will have a list of satisfied customers. Call a couple of them. Ask about their experience, if the work was done on time, and if there were any surprises.
- What's your experience with this type of tree/job? Some trees are trickier than others. Big Ponderosa pines, for instance, need a different approach than a small ornamental crabapple. Make sure they know what they're doing for your specific situation.
- How do you plan to do the job? Ask about their methods. Will they use spikes on a tree that's not being removed? (They shouldn't, unless it's coming down.) What kind of equipment will they use? How will they protect your lawn or landscaping?
- Will you provide a written estimate? Always, always get it in writing. No handshake deals when it comes to tree work.
What to Look For in a Quote
So you've got a few estimates. Don't just compare the bottom line. Look at what's included:
- Detailed Scope of Work: Does it clearly state exactly what they're going to do?