Things to look for in a tree surgeon before you book
People tend to overlook the benefits of finding the right and the most qualified tree surgeon as they are more focused on improving and beautifying their garden. However, it would help to consider the things to look for in a tree surgeon first before jumping to hire one.
The thing is, there is a massive difference between a certified tree surgeon and a certified arborist or arboriculture. They have different main focuses, don't get confused. And finding an excellent and top-notch tree service company would make you avoid costly repairs, illegal and dangerous mistakes.
But the question is, how do you start searching and looking for the right tree surgeon? The following are four things to pay attention to before you book. The following list will assist you with distinguishing between a 'rogue trader' and a registered tree company.
Things to look for in a tree surgeon before you book
Insurance
Tree surgery training entails an in-depth understanding of climbing equipment, health and safety, and public protection. Like how most professional trades, including gas fitting, welding, etc., are built around competency-based certifications: tree knowledge, working at heights, using specialised equipment such as stump grinder, chipper, and chainsaw.
Insurance companies require tree surgeons to have these qualifications. Therefore, working with a professional or business with a public liability insurance policy is an excellent place to start. Occasionally, companies disclose this information publicly - like this insurance certificate here - so you do not have to ask to see it first.
We are fully insured, up to £5 Million for public liability. All insurance and training certificates can be provided if required.
Qualifications
The last thing you would want is to hire a tree surgeon without qualifications. You must know that hiring an experienced tree surgeon equipped with formal training and tools would benefit you the most. Hiring one would prevent you from further damage and costs.
A qualified tree surgeon would have NPTC accreditation, along with a statement that work is carried out to Health and Safety Executive Guidelines within Environmental Restrictions.
All our staff have received appropriate training to N.P.T.C. standards or relevant training body or are working under the supervision of trained staff. And all our tree work is carried out in accordance with BS 3998 (2010): ‘Recommendations for Tree Work’.
Advertisements
A professional tree surgeon company would most likely have a website. You will notice if a company values their customers and clients since it would reflect on its website. Also, the website will include the company address.
It would also help to look for your tree surgeon's advertising. For example, look for their tree service flyer since a flyer from a rogue trader would unlikely have a business address on it. It is making you unable to reach them once damage or repair need occurs.
A rogue trader would never disclose their address.
Previous Customer Reviews
Find if there are any reviews or testimonials on their website. How excellent a tree surgery service company does their tree work would reflect on their customer's reviews and testimonials.
It would also help to ask them the following questions:
● How do they market?
● Do they have a credible website with actual customer reviews?
● Where is the company registered?
● Are they insured?
● Are they certified?
● Where are the photos and testimonials from happy customers?
Quote
Accepting a verbal estimate for the service can do no good, as this could change. If you want a record of the price of the job, make sure you have everything in writing on company paper. See whether there are any additional charges for services such as garbage disposal or VAT or if you need to lease any equipment. Make sure you know what you're getting for your money.
Their equipment
Anyone doing tree service, tree care, or tree removal should wear a harness and a rope. Personal protection equipment (PPE) is required for everyone on the job site. Chainsaw and boots, as well as a helmet with visor and ear protection, should all be part of the standard safety equipment.
A good tree surgeon is equipped with the right tools, materials, and protective gear. They also have deep knowledge on how to use those properly.
What to Avoid
Make sure to avoid the following things and don't hesitate to ask a lot of questions as you will be able to distinguish a trader through queries.
Cash Demand
A tree surgery service that wants cash beforehand is untrustworthy. A good tree surgeon never requires an upfront payment. They don't need to buy materials; why is payment before required? A deposit may be required to hire specialised gear such as a manual elevated work platform to access larger trees, but you will be able to pay by card and receive a receipt. Otherwise, only pay after you are pleased with the work.
No work address
It is doubtful for a certified tree surgeon never to disclose their location as that can be one of the ways their clients can reach them. If there is an address, make sure to verify.
No landline number
There's no way to track someone down if all you have is their cell phone number. Mobile phones can be turned off, or even worse, thrown away. If something goes wrong, plan ahead of time what you'll do. You get that peace of mind while using a landline phone number.
Final tip
When in doubt, don't be hesitant to seek clarification by asking plenty of questions. You may catch a cowboy out by asking questions about the project.