How to make the right decision when hiring a tree service

After being at home during the stay-at-home order, you may have noticed a couple og things about your home you’d like to change. One of those may have been your trees. Whether you have a tree that looks like it’s sick, needs to be removed, needs trimming, or you want to replace a tree, you may be looking for a professional to help.

Working with trees properly takes time, specific equipment, knowledge and experience. Safety is of great importance. All these factors make hiring a trusted tree service the key. You don’t want to go with the first one that knocks on your door.

Better Business Bureau offers these tips for hiring a reputable tree service:

■ Get advice from others. For instance, ask friends and family for recommendations. Also, look at reviews online.

■ Get three estimates that include costs and scope of the job. However, don’t base your decision on price alone.

■ Get references and call them to ask about their experience.

■ Inquire about the equipment to be used, as well as how the tree service will minimize damage. Keep in mind, some can’t do stump grinding as they don’t have equipment. Others may not have cranes to reach tall trees.

■ Consider reputation and length of time in business.

■ Ask questions. (Do the employees undergo a background check? Will they be wearing name tags and uniforms? What safety standards are followed? Are they equipped with protective gear? Are the company vehicles clearly marked?) If there’s hesitancy, you may want to continue your search.

■ Verify insurance, licensing.

■ Determine if companies employ certified arborists who’ve passed tests and have adequate training and knowledge specific to tree care.

■ Find out if tree services are members of organizations, such as the National Arborist Association (NAA), American Society of Consulting Arborists (ASCA) or accredited with the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA), which ensure companies adhere to industry standards.

■ Don’t give large payments up-front. Professionals should not charge before the job is finished. Likewise, walk away if payment is required to be in cash or a check written to an individual. Pay by credit card for prrotection.

■ Get a written contract that includes business contact information, details start and completion dates, costs, work to be done, protection of your property, clean up and removal of debris.

You should be wary if approached by a tree service out of the blue saying you need immediate work done. An honest company won’t pressure you. Likewise, be leery of companies from other states giving estimates.

For more information about hiring a tree service, visit bbb.org or call 937-222-5825 or 800-7765301. BBB can provide lists and profiles of accredited services.