Question guide
How to Choose a Tree Service Company
Updated · Limbwright editorial
Short answer
Ask for proof of liability insurance and workers' compensation, check any license your state or city requires, and get the scope of work in writing. Be wary of anyone who offers to top trees, uses climbing spikes on trees you are keeping, or pressures you to sign on the spot.
The checklist
Insurance certificates
Liability and workers' compensation, sent from the insurer, not a photocopy.
License where required
Several states, including Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey and Connecticut, license tree workers; some cities, such as Denver, do too.
Certified arborist
For pruning and diagnosis, ask whether an ISA Certified Arborist is on staff.
Written scope
Exactly which trees, what is done, stump, cleanup and wood disposal.
Permits
Who checks and applies for any city permit.
Red flags
Offers to top trees
Topping harms trees and is rejected by arborist standards.
Spikes on trees being pruned
Climbing spikes wound trees that are staying.
Door-to-door after a storm
Check credentials carefully.
Pressure to sign over insurance claims
Read any assignment of benefits form carefully.
No insurance proof
You can be liable if an uninsured worker is hurt.
Why insurance matters most
Tree work is one of the most dangerous trades. If an uninsured worker is injured on your property, or a tree lands on a neighbor's house, the claims can fall on you. A certificate sent directly from the insurer is the best proof.
- Liability
- Covers damage to your and neighbors' property.
- Workers' compensation
- Covers injured workers.
- Verify
- Call the insurer listed on the certificate.
Questions to ask on the phone
- How will the tree come down?
- Felled, rigged, or by crane.
- What equipment will be on site?
- And will it fit through your gate?
- Is stump grinding included?
- It is often separate.
- Who cleans up?
- Chips, logs and sawdust.
Hiring questions
Do I need more than one opinion?
For big jobs, two or three opinions help you compare methods and scope.
Is an ISA Certified Arborist required?
Not for most removals, but certification shows training for pruning and tree health work.
Should I pay a deposit?
Be cautious with large deposits, especially from unknown companies after storms.
Why an unprepared crew is a risk
Tree work combines heights, heavy wood and chainsaws, and it ranks among the most hazardous jobs in the country by injury rate. Companies that skip insurance, training or proper equipment move that risk onto you, your house and your neighbors. Damage from a badly placed cut can be far more serious than the job itself.
Storms bring out many new or out-of-area crews. Some are reputable contractors traveling to help, and some are not. Ask for a local address, a working phone number and references, and check reviews from before the storm. Many state attorney general offices also publish warnings about storm-chasing contractors and advice on what to check before signing anything.
How we help
Limbwright connects callers with independent tree companies that work in their area. Ask any company you speak with the checklist questions above. See tree removal and tree trimming for what each job involves.
This guide is general information, not professional, legal or insurance advice. Tree conditions, local rules and policy terms vary. Have a qualified arborist inspect the tree, and confirm regulations and coverage with your city and insurer.
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